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“Christ is risen!” — “He is truly risen!” This liturgical exchange, repeated three times by the Pope during Easter Mass, is not just a ritual. It is a victory cry echoing through the centuries, a proclamation that changed history forever. But why three times? What mystery lies behind this solemn tradition?
In this article, we will explore the profound theological, historical, and spiritual meaning of this unique moment in the papal liturgy. We will discover how this triple proclamation not only celebrates the Resurrection but invites us to live it out in our own time.
1. The Historical Origin: A Cry from the Early Christians
The tradition of the triple “Christus resurrexit” has its roots in the early Church. The first Christians, following Jewish liturgical customs, used repetitions to emphasize fundamental truths.
- In Byzantine liturgy, the deacon proclaims: “Christ is risen from the dead!” and the people respond: “Indeed, He is risen!”
- In the West, this practice became formalized in the papal Mass, where the Pope, as Peter’s successor, solemnly announces the Resurrection as the core of Christian faith.
The number three is no coincidence:
✅ It symbolizes the Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit).
✅ It recalls Jesus’ three prophecies of His Resurrection (Mt 16:21; 17:22-23; 20:18-19).
✅ It echoes Peter’s three denials and his threefold affirmation of love (Jn 21:15-17).
2. The Meaning Behind Each Repetition: A Journey of Faith, Hope, and Love
The Pope does not repeat this phrase merely out of tradition—each proclamation carries deep spiritual significance.
🔴 First Proclamation: “Christus resurrexit!” – The Faith That Overcomes the World
“This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it” (Ps 118:24).
The first cry is an act of faith. In a world that doubts God, the Church declares with certainty: Christ is alive! This is not a myth, nor a distant memory—it is a reality that transforms history.
📖 For Today: In an age of relativism, the Resurrection is our anchor. How do we live this faith? By rejecting despair, knowing that Christ has already conquered.
🟡 Second Proclamation: “Christus resurrexit!” – The Hope That Renews
“We are witnesses of these things” (Acts 5:32).
The second cry is a call to hope. The Resurrection is not just a past event—it is a promise of eternal life for us.
📖 For Today: Amid chaos, war, and crisis, the Church proclaims: Christ is stronger! How do we live this hope? By being bearers of light, even in darkness.
🟢 Third Proclamation: “Christus resurrexit!” – The Love That Compels Us
“If Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless” (1 Cor 15:14).
The third cry is a summons to love. The Resurrection is not just for contemplation—it must be proclaimed.
📖 For Today: The world needs witnesses of the Resurrection, not just theorists. How do we live this out? By loving like Christ, serving, forgiving, and being messengers of His victory.
3. Why Does the Pope Sing It? Liturgy as a Living Experience of the Resurrection
The solemn chant of Christus resurrexit is not theater—it is theology in action.
- Song elevates the soul: Sacred music transcends words, touching the heart.
- The Pope as herald: Just as Mary Magdalene ran to announce the Resurrection, the Pope proclaims to the world that Jesus lives.
- Unity of the Church: When the people respond “He is truly risen!”, the whole Church affirms its faith.
4. How to Live “Christus Resurrexit” Today
Easter does not end with Mass. It must resonate in our lives.
✝️ Practical Ways to Be Witnesses of the Resurrection:
✔ Renew your baptismal promises (as done during the Easter Vigil).
✔ Live with joy—a sad Christian is a poor witness.
✔ Proclaim Christ through words and deeds, especially to those who have lost faith.
Conclusion: Christ Is Alive—and He Wants Us Alive in His Love!
The Pope’s triple Christus resurrexit is not just tradition—it is a call to believe, hope, and love boldly. In a world drowning in despair, the Church shouts with strength: Christ is risen!
And you… are you ready to respond with your life?
“He is truly risen!”
Did you enjoy this article? Share it and spread the proclamation of the Resurrection to others. Happy Easter! 🌟
