Patriarch Porfirije: The time for repentance is limited, don’t delay it
Patriarch Porfirije. Photo: Serbian Orthodox Church
In his sermon, Serbian Patriarch Porfirije addressed the faithful with spiritual guidance, warning of two main deceptions that demonic forces use to divert people from God’s path, reports the press service of the Serbian Orthodox Church.
The first deception lies in convincing us that we have plenty of time for repentance. The Patriarch stated:
“Demonic forces tell us there is time for ascetic effort, repentance, and love, and that we don’t need to hurry to struggle against our passions, especially pride and self-centeredness.”
The Serbian Primate reminded everyone that no one knows the moment they will meet God.
The second, more serious deception, according to the Patriarch, is that demons try to convince people they do not exist. Porfirije emphasized:
“They do exist, brothers and sisters!”
The Patriarch also noted that demons have no power over a person unless that power is granted to them through free will:
“Demonic forces have no authority over us unless we give them a reason and the right to rule over us. We grant them this right through our choices.”
He concluded his sermon by reminding the faithful that only God’s will is stronger than human will, and it is the only force that governs humanity.
As previously reported by the UOJ, the Serbian Patriarch has called for interfaith dialogue.
Read also
Dumenko holds "service" at seized UOC church in Boyarka
On September 29, the head of the OCU performed a "divine service" at St. Michael's Church in Boyarka and rewarded the raider-rector.
UOC hierarchs mark 30th anniversary of Holovchyntsi Convent's revival
UOC bishops and clergy of the eparchy congratulated the abbess of the Transfiguration Convent and her sisters on the memorable date.
UOC cleric discusses life of Ukrainian parishes with Hungarian official
A UOC priest and a Hungarian official paid particular attention to issues of practical interaction between Ukrainian parishes and government authorities.
Ukrposhta issues stamp featuring Lavra for Soviet-era reserve's anniversary
The new postal block, issued in a print run of 40,000 copies, depicts the Lavra's churches, bell tower, and ancient frescoes.
Met. Theodosiy links his criminal case to ex-prosecutor named in NABU tapes
A Cherkasy court extended Metropolitan Theodosiy’s preventive measure for another two months – until November 29, 2026.
Stefanchuk: Seeking UCCRO-LGBT compromise on new Civil Code
The Verkhovna Rada speaker said the working group is seeking a broad public compromise as it revises the draft of the new Civil Code.