In Easter messages, bishops emphasise the gift of hope

Dunedin Bishop Michael Dooley said the Resurrection of Jesus “changes us and changes the world”.

“Out of this experience we receive the gift of hope. This hope is not just wishful thinking, but it is a living reality grounded in God’s love and faithfulness,” Bishop Dooley said.

The bishop acknowledged the reality of war and the threat of ongoing distress and suffering, but “Easter proclaims that even in the darkest moments, God is present and at work. At Easter the stone was rolled away, what seemed like a terrible ending became a joyful new beginning”.

“The hope of Easter often comes quietly – through kindness shared, through generosity to others and through the simple decision to keep going in faith. It reminds us there is no situation beyond transformation and no person beyond redemption.”

In his message, Palmerston North Bishop Adams said Easter is a time “when we become clearer about our meaning and purpose”. The Easter story “is the reminder of where we are going. Even in death, our lives are changed, not ended”.

“Easter is a profound message of hope, a message that feels especially important in the world now,” he said. “Easter renews our awareness that life has meaning and purpose, and that this is expressed most clearly in the great mysteries we celebrate during the Easter liturgy.”

Bishop Adams also reflected on the Eucharist as “an Easter sacrament”.

“It gives us direction and life. Christ is not passive in the Eucharist – there is a real dynamism. He animates us and gives meaning and purpose to our lives. The Easter season and the Eucharist are inseparable. Christ nourishes us so that we may live as Easter people.”

The Easter messages of other New Zealand bishops, which will be released over the Easter Triduum, will be shared in CathNews New Zealand next week.

FULL STORY

Bishop of Dunedin Easter message 2026 (Catholic Diocese of Dunedin)

Living the Joy of Easter (Catholic Diocese of Palmerston North)