Hierarch of the Church of Greece: Persecution is a testimony to holiness

Metropolitan Seraphim of Piraeus. Photo: orthodoxianewsagency

On July 27, 2025, during the Divine Liturgy, Metropolitan Seraphim of Piraeus told the faithful that persecution and martyrdom are testimonies of true holiness.

According to the hierarch, the acceptance of suffering, tribulation, and trials is not a sign of weakness, but rather genuine discipleship in Christ.

“Christ died for us – and His disciples are called to drink the same cup of suffering,” said the Metropolitan.

Concluding his homily, Metropolitan Seraphim stated:

“Suffering, persecution, and martyrdom are testimonies to the authenticity of holiness. Let us also ask God for grace – with a pure heart, with repentance, and with the resolve to imitate Christ.”

Earlier, the UOJ reported that, according to Metropolitan Seraphim, the devil wants churches to be full of “rotten” Christians.

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