The Great Vespers Service for the Resurrection was solemnly celebrated today at all Orthodox churches in Cyprus as well the Divine Liturgy of Saint Basil the Great, also known as the “First Resurrection”.
During the celebration of the Divine Liturgy, Archbishop Chrysostomos of Cyprus announced that Christ would be soon risen and sang the chant “Arise o God and judge the Earth”. Meanwhile, they had covered the icons with a black piece of cloth and, after the First Resurrection, the Archbishop scattered laurel leaves as a sign of the impending victory.
The Orthodox Church urges the faithful to remain silent, to keep fasting, and to anticipate the Resurrection of our Lord Saviour Christ on Holy and Great Saturday. A true Christian experiences the Resurrection in his own way and makes efforts to fight his or her passions. The Resurrection is a mystery during which the faithful feel redeemed. They know that their daily struggle has finally paid off. Especially these days, when the faithful cannot attend the church services, their struggle becomes more genuine. Jesus Christ will soon rise for the sake of all of us!
Source: Church of Cyprus
