Paschal Homily
St. John Chrysostom
Summary
The short, triumphant sermon read aloud in every Orthodox church at the Paschal (Easter) Vigil, proclaiming Christ's victory over death and the universal invitation to the heavenly banquet.
Who Should Read This
Everyone — this is the most accessible text in the entire library. Perfect first read for anyone curious about Orthodoxy.
Key Excerpts
"Christ is risen, and not one dead remains in the grave! Christ is risen, and life reigns! Christ is risen, and the tomb is emptied of its dead!"
"O Death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory? Christ is risen, and you are overthrown!"
"Let no one fear death, for the death of our Savior has set us free."
Editorial Commentary
If you have ever attended an Orthodox Pascha, you have heard this homily — it is read in every parish worldwide at the climax of the most important service of the year. In just a few paragraphs, Chrysostom captures the entire Gospel: death is trampled, Hades is overthrown, and every sinner is welcomed to the feast. It is the most famous homily in Christian history and never fails to move.