According to the long-standing tradition that has existed at the Central Church, on this Easter eve, short sermons were given from the pulpit, recounting the events of the last hours of the Savior's earthly life.
Peter Ryabukha recalled the struggle of Jesus Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane. The preacher noted the importance of prayer and searching for the will of God in all circumstances of life, not just when things are pleasant.
Sergei Lunev spoke about the trial before the high priest Caiaphas and the dangers of service without God. Two questions were raised, which are important for everyone to answer:
Igor Zolotorevsky described the picture of the court at Pontius Pilate. Four circumstances were noted that the procurator ignored when deciding on the crucifixion:
People should not ignore the circumstances that prompt them to follow Christ
Alexander Prokhorushkin recalled the journey to Golgotha. The preacher pointed out the need to take his cross and follow the path of Jesus Christ, waiting for His coming.
Dmitry Belkin spoke about the Savior's first words at Calvary. “Forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing” - this request to Heavenly Father shows us how to forgive: Forgive those who mock, those who hurt ... this kind of Christian forgiveness will warm the world in our difficult time.
Alexander Baranyuk read the story of the repentant robber. An internal change was noted that occurred in the heart of the crucified criminal, which occurred contrary to external circumstances. He realizes the difference between himself and Christ, and only asks for the Savior to remember him in his kingdom. In response, Jesus promises: “Now you will be with me in paradise!”
Pastor Joseph Melkumyan recalled the tender care of Christ for his mother. This example shows us how to take care of our parents, even in very cramped and suffering
The words of Jesus Christ: “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?” quoted pastor Vladimir Tongushov. The preacher noted that God leaving someone is the most terrible condition of man. Why was the Son of God left on the cross? So that a person can be accepted by God in the kingdom of heaven.Царствии Небесном.
The Regional Pastor of Central Russian UECB, Pastor Nikolai Maslyukov delivered a sermon on the word “Finished!” Declared by the Savior from the cross, Jesus Christ completed the work that the Father entrusted to Him. He revealed God to the people, passed the words of the Father to the disciples, and made the way of salvation possible.
The last words of Jesus Christ: “In Your hands I commend My spirit,” was recalled by Pastor Sergey Zolotorevsky. A call was made to those watching to put their lives into the hands of their Heavenly Father, because He causes all things to work together for our good.
Traditionally, Easter was met with prayer and singing of this famous chant:
“Christ has risen from the dead. Death was trampled upon death and gave life to those in the graves!”
Throughout the service, the Central Church choir sang fragments from the oratorio of E. Sheve "The Death and Resurrection of Christ."
Even though this year’s Easter services across Russia took place without parishioners, the joy of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ once again filled the hearts of Christians who watched online broadcasts of services at home!
Christ is risen! Truly risen!
I. Sokolov