The leader of Australia’s largest Anglican Diocese, the Archbishop of Sydney, Dr Glenn Davies, has recalled the Moon Landing and its 50th anniversary, in his Easter Message this year.

Celebrations are being prepared for July when NASA will lead the anniversary of Neil Armstrong and the Apollo 11 team landing on the surface of the Moon in 1969.

“50 years ago, the world was looking towards space – waiting for the first moon landing.” the Archbishop said.

“At the time, US President Richard Nixon described it as ‘the greatest week in the history of the world since Creation!’ The great preacher Billy Graham quickly corrected him – saying that far greater was the week of the death and resurrection of Jesus.”

“If you were alive in 1969 you would remember exactly where you were when Neil Armstrong took that first ‘small step for a man and one giant leap for mankind.’ Although none of us were there when Jesus lived and died – his resurrection was so significant that we remember and celebrate it every year and will continue to do so until he returns.” Dr Davies said.

“The resurrection of Jesus guarantees that no matter how far we have strayed, there is a way for us to be friends with God – and live with him forever.”

Archbishop Davies will preach at St Andrew’s Cathedral on Easter Day (Sunday).

The Cathedral will host the traditional Good Friday performance of Handel’s Messiah with orchestra and choir on Friday night at 7 pm.