Metropolitan Arseniy calls for faithfulness to Church from detention center

Metropolitan Arseniy. Photo: facebook.com/svlavra

Metropolitan Arseniy, abbot of the Sviatohirsk Lavra, who is currently in detention, addressed believers with guidance on how to remain faithful to Christ and the Church under persecution, Orthodox Life reports. In his letter, he emphasized that the salvation of the faithful depends on their unity with the Church.

"The Holy Fathers say that we do not save the Church, but She saves us, and all we need to do is hold on to the Mother Church, as She is the mystical yet real Body of Christ," the bishop noted.

The hierarch of the UOC reminded believers that, in addition to preserving dogmas and canons, it is essential to guard oneself against sin, which separates a person from the Church. "The most important thing is to guard ourselves against sin, which takes us away from the Church. If we are outside the Church, what benefit can we have? All our efforts will not have full strength, as they will be deprived of God's Power, that is, grace."

Metropolitan Arseniy also urged believers not to neglect the Sacraments, which strengthen their spiritual fortitude, especially Confession and Holy Communion.

In conclusion, the abbot of the Sviatohirsk Lavra thanked everyone for their kindness and stressed that all the good in his life is connected to his belonging to the Church. "I am sinful, and if I have anything good in your eyes, it is all because I was and am a small part of the Church of Christ, which made me a bishop and, by God's action, instilled kindness toward me from good people."

As reported by UOJ, the court has extended the abbot of the Sviatohirsk Lavra's detention until February 2025.

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