By Don Aguiar
Mumbai, April 1, 2026: Easter celebrates new life, hope, and victory over death. At its heart is the resurrection of Jesus Christ, honoured as the “risen saviour.” This day marks the rebirth of Christianity, reminding us of Christ’s sacrifice to save humanity. It is a time for harmony, peace, prayer, charity, goodwill, and gratitude—gratitude for redemption, fostering a mindset of hope and peace.
This year, Easter arrives amid global unrest. Wars, instability, and uncertainty highlight how fragile peace remains. Violence clouds the joy of festivals, and political disputes or strategic conflicts leave a lasting human toll.
In today’s interconnected world, peace is more vital than ever. Conflicts disrupt trade, trigger humanitarian crises, and heighten insecurity. Easter, therefore, is not only a celebration but also a call to hope for a more humane and peaceful world.
Pope Leo XIV has again pleaded for peace in the Middle East and other global hotspots, urging leaders to create genuine dialogue amid mounting human suffering. “We cannot remain silent before the suffering of so many people,” he said, warning that war “wounds all of humanity” and its violence “is a scandal for the entire human family.”
Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, echoing the pope’s repeated appeals, cautioned against using religious language to justify conflict. He called such manipulation “the gravest sin,” stressing that war is political, driven by material interests. Religion, he warned, must not be exploited for political gain.
The media also plays a role, shaping narratives that can justify or normalise conflict. Journalists must not only report but also scrutinise events critically.
The current Middle East conflict between the US-Israel alliance and Iran is increasingly one-sided.
Iran’s defences are faltering, its leadership targeted, and its military infrastructure dismantled. Yet some commentators predict American failure, reflecting a tendency to sympathise with the underdog. This “David versus Goliath” instinct appeals emotionally, but it obscures reality.
History reminds us that persecution is part of faith. Jesus warned his followers: “If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you.” Since the Fall of Man, humanity has been divided into two camps:
• The Kingdom of God on earth—the Church of Christ, serving God and seeking eternal union with Him.
• The Kingdom of Satan—those who rebel against divine law and follow the Prince of this World.
Between these camps, warfare will continue until Christ returns in glory. Today, the Church faces political enemies stirring anti-Catholic persecution and ecclesiastical enemies spreading heresy.
War is never admirable or justified. Violence cannot be morally sanitised, nor should analysis rely on emotion. Every war produces economic shockwaves, but hardship does not determine military success. The US and Israel appear far ahead, with Iran’s endurance the only variable.
Similarly, God’s purpose in sending His Son was not subject to human strategy but fulfilled in Christ’s resurrection, signifying Christianity’s rebirth.
This year, Easter and Eid converge at a crossroads of history. As the crescent moon ends the fast of Eid and the sun of Easter breathes life into spring, we offer a prayer for peace.
May the patience learned in fasting become patience with one another. May the renewal seen in Christ’s resurrection inspire renewal of our shared humanity.
Our hearts reach every corner where peace feels distant. May the light of these sacred days warm cold homes, heal broken spirits, and calm restless lands.
May the “Double Dawn” of Eid and Easter this year usher in a global spring where every child wakes to skies filled only with light.
As moon and sun meet in grace, may your life be centred in hope. Like Jesus calling Lazarus from the tomb, may we emerge renewed, walking in love without measure.
Wishing you all a Happy Easter. Warmest blessings to you and your family. May peace be the gift we finally give the world.
Don Aguiar is the former Maharashtra state president of the All-India Catholic Association and served as secretary general of the Bombay Catholic Sabha. He writes on the intersection of global affairs and Catholic faith, offering reflections that connect contemporary events with a faith-informed perspective.
The views expressed in this piece are those of the author alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of Matters India.