This Easter, despite usually celebrating Holy Week in bustling parishes and warm spring weather, Fr. Marcin Serwin, OMI, journeyed far north to Coral Harbour, Nunavut—a remote Inuit community located on Southampton Island in the northern reaches of Hudson Bay. There, he brought the presence and warmth of the Resurrection to a Catholic population without a resident priest, where average temperatures during Easter hover around a frigid -20°C.

Coral Harbour, known in Inuktitut as Salliq, is home to a resilient and close-knit community. Despite the isolation and the cold, the faith of the people is vibrant. Fr. Marcin's Holy Week visit was a time of intense pastoral ministry and joyful human connection.

Throughout the week, Fr. Marcin immersed himself in the life of the community. He visited nearly every part of town, forming bonds especially the children and youth. He gave talks at the local school, engaging students with the message of Easter and the hope it brings. In the evenings, he could often be found at the community arena, cheering on young Innuits and getting to know the next generation of Inuit leaders.

Working closely with the local catechist, Fr. Marcin helped guide the community through the solemn and sacred days of Holy Week. Together, they celebrated a deeply meaningful Triduum, culminating in the joy of Easter Sunday. The celebrations included five First Communions—moments of grace and profound joy for the families involved.

Catechesis played a key role during his visit, as Fr. Marcin held regular sessions with the children, teaching them about the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus. “Their openness and curiosity were deeply moving,” he said. “There is a spiritual hunger here that is both beautiful and humbling.”

But his mission went beyond liturgies and teaching. Fr. Marcin also took part in community life, participating in the local fish derby—a beloved Easter tradition in Coral Harbour. He visited the Hamlet offices, blessed those working for the good of the town, and spent time in the medical centre, praying with and offering comfort to the sick.

Despite the demanding schedule and biting cold, Fr. Marcin found his time in Coral Harbour profoundly life-giving. “It was an intense week,” he reflected, “but hopefully one that will be remembered by the people as much as I will remember them. I miss them already.”

His visit served as a powerful reminder that the Gospel knows no boundaries—that the love of Christ reaches even the most remote corners of the Arctic. In the simplicity of shared meals, in the warmth of Inuit hospitality, and in the quiet dignity of Holy Week liturgies, the light of Easter shone brightly in Coral Harbour.

As we reflect on the meaning of resurrection and renewal, the story of the Christians of Coral Harbour reminds us that God is always present—especially in places where His presence might seem least expected.