“I wish to express my closeness to all brothers and sisters who, especially in the East, are celebrating Easter today: Beloved, may the Risen Lord be with you and fill you with His Holy Spirit! Happy Easter to you all!”

Pope Francis' words came during the Regina Coeli on Sunday, as Eastern Christian churches in many nations celebrate their Easter on April 16 this year, in accordance with the Julian calendar.

“Sadly,” the Pope continued, “In stark contrast to the Easter message, wars continue, and are continuing to sow death in horrific ways.”

“Let us grieve for these atrocities and pray for the victims, asking God that the world may no longer experience the horror of violent death at the hands of man, but the wonder of the life He gives and renews with His grace!”

Prayers for Russians and Ukrainians

Pope Francis also had a special thought for our brothers and sisters in Russia and Ukraine who celebrate Easter today.

“May the Lord be with them and help them to make peace!” he prayed.

His appeal comes as the conflict enters its 417th day and sees concentrated fighting in the eastern cities of Bakhmut, Komyshuvakha, and Sloviansk with more people killed and wounded. Fighting has been ongoing in Ukraine since the Russian army invaded its neighbor on 24 February 2022.