HORA SPEI – AN HOUR OF HOPE in honor of Alexey Navalny
We witness the pervasive spread of darkness across the globe, igniting conflicts, instilling fear, perpetuating lies, and fostering hatred. An ancient malevolence now exhibits heightened aggression.
The tragic demise of Alexei Navalny within Putin's prison has galvanized countless individuals to resist evil, to act with conscience rather than mere expediency, refusing to yield to the forces of darkness. Through his courageous example and ultimate sacrifice for a brighter future for Russia, Navalny has set in motion the metaphysical currents of history. Many placed their hopes in him for a more just and prosperous Russia, and his assailants sought to extinguish that hope alongside him.
Those of us who reject the dominion of darkness, who champion love, goodness, and humanity, are numerous worldwide. While diverse in faith and creed, we share common moral ideals of peace, kindness, and justice. Navalny, a devout Christian who also championed the rights of Muslim prisoners, epitomized this unity.
All faith traditions acknowledge the potency of collective prayer, invoking divine protection and guidance against the forces of evil. In these tumultuous times, such collective supplication is paramount.
Today is two years since the start of the senseless war against Ukraine and nine days since the murder of Navalny. Therefore, we invite believers of every denomination to unite in a shared endeavor: an hour of hope in honor of Alexei Navalny. This Sunday, February 25, we implore you to dedicate one hour to prayer and contemplation for the triumph of goodness and justice. If feasible, let it coincide with 12 noon.
Whether in a place of worship or in private reflection, know that countless others stand in solidarity with you. For those in authoritarian regimes like Russia, this offers a rare opportunity to commemorate Navalny's memory safely.
For those who do not adhere to a specific faith or identify as atheist or agnostic, participation in a scholarly discourse on the eternal struggle between good and evil is encouraged. Reflect on actionable steps towards establishing justice and peace on our planet.
In addition to prayer and reflection, music and poetry have the power to uplift and inspire. They illuminate the goodness within us, illuminating our souls. During this hour of hope, indulge in your favorite music or poetry, or perhaps organize a home concert or sing-along outdoors in the spirit of peace, love, and justice. Alternatively, join online concerts by musicians supporting our cause.
In an era shadowed by the specter of nuclear conflict during the Cold War, John Lennon penned 'Imagine,' envisioning a world where all live in harmony. In his footsteps, we echo:
You may say we are dreamers, But we are not the only one. We hope some day you'll join us And the world will be as one.
Alexei Navalny, whose life was cut short within the confines of a prison, shared this dream. In his honor, let us beseech for peace, pray for the triumph of love, goodness, and reason over aggressive evil, over the madness of war and hatred.