Patriarch Kirill sent Easter greetings to leaders of other Christian denominations, including Pope Leo XIV and Garegin II, highlighting Easter as a shared celebration of life, grace, and unity among Christians.

Similarly, John X of Antioch extended greetings to Eastern Catholic leaders, expressing hope for peace in the Middle East.

In his traditional “Urbi et Orbi” address, Pope Leo XIV called for an end to hostility, warning against growing indifference to violence and stressing that peace requires dialogue and mutual respect. He also announced a global prayer for peace on April 11. Bartholomew I of Constantinople echoed similar themes, dedicating prayers to victims of war.

A ceasefire between Israel and Iran led to a partial normalization of religious life in Jerusalem. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre reopened after nearly 40 days of restrictions, with Holy Thursday services led by Theophilos III.

While earlier in the week Patriarch Theophilos described Easter as taking place under “trial,” by Holy Saturday the tone shifted toward celebration. Christians worldwide were invited to gather for the Holy Fire ceremony, reaffirming longstanding tradition. Security measures were heightened in anticipation of large pilgrimages.

However, some churches remained cautious. The Bulgarian Orthodox Church declined to send a delegation to Jerusalem due to safety concerns, while others, including the Russian Church, continued preparations to receive the Holy Fire.

Despite the Israel-Iran truce, violence continued in southern Lebanon for much of the week. The Middle East Council of Churches described the situation as a “profound trial” and called for civilian protection.

Church leaders, including Patriarch John X, coordinated efforts and appealed for peace in Lebanon and Syria. The World Council of Churches also urged a ceasefire and warned of a looming humanitarian crisis.

The United Nations reported thousands of casualties over the past month and damage to civilian infrastructure. By week’s end, signs of de-escalation emerged, with the United States reportedly providing temporary security guarantees to Beirut ahead of negotiations.

In the context of Easter, Vladimir Putin announced a temporary ceasefire in Ukraine from April 11–12, calling on Kyiv to reciprocate. This marks the fourth such truce since the conflict began.

The Russian Orthodox Church welcomed the initiative. Its representative, Vladimir Legoyda, expressed hope that the pause would allow civilians in affected areas to attend Easter services safely.

Meanwhile, humanitarian efforts continued. In Russian cities such as Kaluga and Cheboksary, blessed Easter bread (kulich) was prepared and sent to servicemen, symbolizing spiritual support during wartime.