The President of the Parliament of Montenegro, Andrija Mandić, congratulated the Orthodox faithful, Serbian Patriarch Porfirije, Metropolitan Joanikije of Montenegro and the Littoral, and other priests of the Serbian Orthodox Church (SPC) on Easter.
In his congratulatory message, Mandić wished that they spend Easter in health, spiritual joy, and the peace of Christ.
"This holy day, an eternal symbol of the victory of life over death, light over darkness, and hope over despair, strongly reminds us of the essence of our faith — that suffering is not the end, but the beginning of eternal life, and sacrifice is the path to salvation," Mandić emphasized in his congratulatory message.
He said that in times when pain and unrest are becoming an increasingly common image of the world, Easter calls us to remain steadfast in prayer, in love for our neighbor, and in hope that does not waver, because only through communion, forgiveness, and Christian humility can we preserve peace in souls and among nations.
"May the Risen Christ bring strength to all who suffer, comfort to those who grieve, and hope to all who seek a better tomorrow, and I wish you to spend the holidays in health, spiritual joy, and Christ's peace," concluded Mandić.
Mandić congratulated the Archbishop of Bar, Monsignor Roko Đonlešaj, the Bishop of Kotor, Monsignor Mladen Vukšić, and the faithful of the Roman Catholic Church on Easter, wishing them to spend it in peace, health, and joy, surrounded by family and loved ones.
Mandić said that the message of Christ's resurrection is eternal hope for humanity - that love conquers hatred, life conquers death, and forgiveness brings healing.
"May this very light of faith, which connects and encourages us, be our guide in building a society based on trust, respect and solidarity," Mandić said in his congratulatory message.
He added that Montenegro needs even more harmony, more attention to each other, and more efforts towards the common good.
Mandić said that he is convinced that everyone can contribute to these efforts, inspired by the Christian virtues of mercy, humility, and selflessness.
"With the sincere hope that in the spirit of Christ's teachings we will build a stable, just and strongly connected community, I extend my deepest respect and best wishes to all believers celebrating Easter," Mandić's congratulatory message reads.
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