Dhaka (AsiaNews) - "The resurrection of Christ is very important for the year 2013, especially because of the way we are experiencing death at this time. The current political situation and the ongoing violence and extremism show us death as a cruel reality," said Mgr Patrick D'Rozario, CSC, archbishop of Dhaka, in his Easter message to Bangladeshi Catholics.
For the prelate, the suffering of the people, especially of "minorities", is comparable to that of Christ, who died tortured and crucified, whose death on the cross however represents "new life and resurrection." Indeed, Christ's suffering and that of the people of Bangladesh are the same.
For men, birth, death and resurrection are the three greatest mysteries, the bishop of Dhaka explained. Christians believe that Jesus was born, died and rose again, mysteries that are ritually celebrated at Easter.
"Christ died, but his death was no ordinary event. He was killed because he said, 'I am the way and the truth and the life.' But mankind chose a life full of lies, immorality and violence. Through fasting and meditation, not only at Easter but throughout life, we can overcome the tendency towards self-destruction and purify ourselves in order to receive the grace of the resurrection," Archbishop D'Rozario said. "Even though Christ was killed, he defeated death and brought new life to the world. Death is not the last word or fate for believers," he added.
"In the past, proclaiming the Risen Christ was for Christians a symbol of New Life. Today, faith in the resurrection must be a spur to life and to the mission for the faithful believe in the resurrection, the new life, new spirit and rebirth." Likewise, "The faithful who believe in Christ cannot take away life," the Easter message noted.
Finally, the archbishop's message went on to say that, the faithful and the nation must reject all forms of death and destruction. In their lieu, "we want the resurrection, victory over death and lastly rebirth through Christ. Let us pray the Risen Christ to bring peace and a new life among men."
