New Delhi, April 20 — Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed warm greetings to the Christian community and citizens across India and the world on the auspicious occasion of Easter, underlining the celebration’s enduring message of hope, spiritual renewal, and universal compassion. In a message shared on the social media platform X, the Prime Minister said, “Wishing everyone a blessed and joyous Easter. This Easter is special because, world over, the Jubilee Year is being observed with immense fervor. May this sacred occasion inspire hope, renewal and compassion in every person. May there be joy and harmony all around.”
Easter, which commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, is being observed with deep religious devotion and celebratory fervor across the country, especially in regions with prominent Christian populations such as Kerala, Goa, Tamil Nadu, and the northeastern states. Churches nationwide came alive with spiritual activities, including traditional midnight vigils and sunrise services. These were marked by solemn prayers, soul-stirring hymns, and heartfelt community gatherings, underscoring the significance of Easter as a time of reflection, faith, and togetherness.
In keeping with the spirit of Christian charity, many congregations and community organizations used the occasion to extend support to the underprivileged, organizing food drives, health camps, and distribution of essential items to those in need. Such acts of kindness reflected the central themes of compassion and renewal that lie at the heart of the Easter message.
Internationally, Easter was observed with equal reverence. At the Vatican, thousands of faithful gathered in and around Saint Peter’s Basilica for the Easter Vigil service. Although Pope Francis could not preside over the Mass due to his ongoing recovery from a respiratory illness, he made a brief but emotionally significant appearance to greet the worshippers before the start of the prayer service. The Mass was led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals, who delivered a homily on behalf of the Pope.
In his message read during the service, Pope Francis reflected on the significance of the resurrection and the enduring relevance of the Easter message in a troubled world. “The light of the Resurrection illumines our path one step at a time,” he noted, reminding the faithful that even in times of uncertainty and adversity, the spiritual renewal symbolized by Easter offers hope, strength, and purpose.
The Jubilee Year, observed this year with renewed spiritual commitment in Christian communities worldwide, has further added to the gravity and celebration of Easter. It has inspired millions to revisit the values of reconciliation, forgiveness, and community solidarity—values that resonate deeply in a global climate marked by conflict, division, and hardship.
In India, Easter also serves as a reminder of the rich diversity