Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — On this Easter Sunday morning the world has never been in greater need for words of hope and comfort. Stepping forward American Samoa’s political and religious leaders remind us — by living out the transforming message of Christ at Easter we have a chance to emulate His message of peace, and his loving reconciliation for all.
Bishop Peter Brown in his Easter message to American Samoa reminds us that “the eternal message of Easter is hope. Jesus Christ died and rose again that we might see light in the midst of darkness.”
A message that has never been more needed with the world shrouded in the darkness of war and the pestilence of COVID.
The Bishop said, “Therefore, it is essential that our celebration is not merely a recalling of a day in history but an opportunity for us to rededicate ourselves to the living Christ who is with us till the end of time.
“The world around us appears clothed in darkness with pandemics and war bringing suffering and pain to many.
“While we here in American Samoa are blest to be far away from these tribulations. But maybe through this Easter we can share in their suffering. By living out the transforming message of Christ at Easter, his peace, and his loving reconciliation for all.
“From the Catholic community in American Samoa we wish you all a blessed Easter with your families.”
Gov. Lemanu Peleti Mauga released an Easter message to the territory where he said, “Around the world, billions of people will gather to commemorate the resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
“While we celebrate this Easter season under restrictions due to the COVID 19 pandemic, this will not deter us from proclaiming that Christ is Risen!
“The season of Easter will always be a powerful reminder that hope can never be lost.
“Through the pain and despair of the Crucifixion, the ultimate sacrifice made by our Lord Jesus Christ was the very embodiment of hope and victory over darkness. As dark and uncertain as the road may seem, I urge our people to remain steadfast; and never forget that God is with us. More than ever, now is the time to be display compassion — the type of kindness that reflects the Goodness of God because his love for us never ceases.
“As we continue to face these uncertain times, our faith will be tested; however, we must remain hopeful and celebrate the blessings of His infinite grace.
“May the promise of Easter fill our lives, our families, our community, and our beloved Territory with new found joy, hope, and gratitude, this season and always.”
Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata’s Easter statement reminded us that Easter is a wonderful reminder that our heartaches are temporary.
“Every year, Christian believers all over the world celebrate a risen Savior, the blessed hope God sent us from Heaven, and the special joy that we will see our loved ones again who have left this life behind.
“This Easter, some of our dear families mourn the loss of a loved one. After two years, Covid-19 virus reached our shores, and our people are facing difficult circumstances. Easter is a wonderful reminder that our heartaches are temporary, as God does great things for his people.
“Last year at this time, we were slowly seeing families reunited with repatriation flights. This year, we have federal medical support during these weeks of battling the virus, as we are mindful of the most vulnerable among us.
“May God bless our islands this Resurrection Sunday.”
And may the hope proclaimed by this day give us solace in the days to come.
Samoa News wishes you a thoughtful Easter Sunday.
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