Brothers and sisters in Christ,

As we continue to celebrate the Easter season, we are reminded of Jesus’ victory of life over death and light over darkness. Let us never forget that the Resurrection of Jesus Christ is indeed the foundation of our hope and the true source of peace.

Even in this season of hope, we find our hearts are heavy, and we must not close our eyes as we witness ongoing violence and suffering in the Middle East and beyond. Living in fear and mourning the loss of loved ones, many across the world long for stability and peace.

“Peace be with you.” A simple yet profound greeting Jesus used when revealing Himself to His disciples, words we ourselves hear and repeat in every Mass. Despite its simplicity, this message is a powerful reminder of our mission, as Christians, to be instruments of peace in the world.

We join our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, in his appeals for an end to the violence and war plaguing our world. In a recent address Pope Leo XIV called for, “all people of goodwill to always search for peace and to reject war.” He has reminded the world that lasting peace cannot be achieved through force, rather, we must encounter our neighbors with mutual respect, and a sincere commitment to the common good.

To truly proclaim Christ’s victory over death, we must not be indifferent to the suffering in the world. This Easter season, let us remember that to be pro-life is to have respect and reverence for all human life. Let us cast aside our divisions and not allow hatred or indifference to take root in our hearts. I encourage all the faithful in our diocese to:
- Pray for an end to all wars
- Reject language that fuels division
- Promote understanding and uphold the dignity of every person
- Live the mission of the Church in your daily lives

May the light of the Risen Christ be a beacon for world leaders, leading them to find the wisdom and courage to comfort those in despair, protect the vulnerable, and inspire all people to seek justice and peace on Earth.

I entrust these intentions to Christ’s Divine Mercy and the prayers of the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

In the Peace of Christ,

Bishop Myron J. Cotta

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