Victor Glover of Artemis II Highlights the ‘Beauty of Creation’ in Easter Message from Space

Astronauts Reflect on Unity and Creation During Artemis II Mission

On Saturday, astronauts participating in NASA’s significant Artemis II mission shared their thoughts on the beauty of the universe and the shared bonds of humanity. They quoted the Bible and highlighted that individuals from various cultures and backgrounds “must get through this together.”

Victor Glover, serving as the pilot of Artemis II, expressed excitement about the journey that, on Monday, was set to take them closer to the moon than humans have been in over 50 years. This mission aims to orbit the moon and is part of a larger initiative to prepare for future landings of astronauts on its surface. It’s notable that the last time humans journeyed to the moon was back in 1972.

During a press conference on their way to the moon, Glover, who identifies as Christian, was asked to share his reflections on Easter.

“These moments are significant. Even from far away, looking at the beauty of creation, it’s really striking how we can see Earth as one,” Glover explained as he spoke about seeing our planet from the capsule’s window. “Reading the Bible, you notice all the wonderful things creation offers. It’s like we’re on a spaceship far from Earth, yet it reminds us that Earth, too, is like a spaceship created to be our home in the universe.”

He expanded on the idea by stressing the importance of humanity’s connectedness in the universe and the need to find ways to coexist peacefully.

“Perhaps because of the distance from you all, it feels like what we’re doing is unique, but we’re just as distant from you, and I assure you, you’re unique too,” Glover reflected. “In all this emptiness, the nothingness of space, there’s this oasis where we can exist together. As we venture deeper into it, we think about it. On Easter Sunday, regardless of beliefs, it’s a moment to consider all cultures, recognize where we are, understand who we are, and realize that we all need to navigate this journey together.”

This mission draws parallels to Apollo 8 and Apollo 10, which orbited the moon and set the stage for the historic Apollo 11 mission that landed Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin on the lunar surface.

In 2022, Glover spoke at a church in Wharton, Texas, contemplating what it means to follow Christ from space. He expressed the belief that Jesus represents the solution to humanity’s challenges.