Metropolitan Onuphry explains what is essential for salvation

His Beatitude Metropolitan Onuphry. Photo: UOC

In his homily on the Sunday of the Triumph of Orthodoxy, His Beatitude Metropolitan Onuphry spoke about the Church's victory over the heresy of iconoclasm and the importance of preserving the purity of Orthodox faith, according to the Information and Education Department of the UOC.

As the Primate noted, the Church waged a difficult struggle against iconoclasm. Even after the restoration of icon veneration in the Byzantine Empire and the establishment of the feast of the Triumph of Orthodoxy, iconoclastic sentiments persisted for some time. The reason for this was a misunderstanding of the Orthodox faith by certain individuals, who perceived icons as idols.

His Beatitude emphasized that according to Orthodox Church teaching, "an icon is an image, and when we venerate it, this veneration is directed toward the prototype."

Speaking about the importance of maintaining the purity of Orthodox faith, Metropolitan Onuphry noted that this faith was taught to us by those who fasted, prayed, and were great ascetics. Such people had a correct understanding of God, which they passed down to us.

It is precisely by adhering to this teaching that one can attain eternal life and salvation.

"Doctrine is like a signpost: if it is correct, you will reach your goal. If it is incorrect, you will wander aimlessly and never arrive," he said.

His Beatitude also added: "We pray for all those who are mistaken or stumbling, that the Lord may grant them the understanding of truth and lead them to its knowledge. Because without the correct faith, it is impossible to please God. And if one does not please God, one cannot be saved. And the main goal of human life is salvation."

According to the Archpastor, during one’s earthly life, a person must prepare for eternal bliss, making themselves capable of receiving the gift of eternal life and salvation, which was given to us through the Incarnation, Suffering, and Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Previously, the UOJ published 20 quotes from His Beatitude Metropolitan Onuphry on Great Lent.

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