Greek theologian voices support for Sviatohirsk Lavra brotherhood

Theologian Michail Maroudis voiced his support for the Sviatohirsk Lavra brethren. Photo: UOJ-Greece

Greek theologian Michail Maroudis expressed his support for the brotherhood of the Holy Dormition Sviatohirsk Lavra following the killing of Monk Varsonofiy and the wounding of two novices. The Greek edition of the UOJ published a statement by the graduate of the Athens School of Theology. The theologian called for prayers for the monastic brotherhood and those who were wounded.

“In the face of such a human tragedy, words truly seem inadequate. We think of a man who chose to dedicate his life to Christ, to live in silence, prayer and asceticism. A monk who left worldly things behind to seek God and to pray not only for himself, but for all of us.”

Michail Maroudis stressed the importance of Christian unity and compassion in a time of severe trials.

“At a time like this, there is no place for disputes or divisive words. There is room only for prayer and love. We pray that the Lord may grant rest to the soul of the departed monk and receive him into His embrace. May He comfort those who knew him, his brothers at the Lavra and all who mourn today.”

The theologian also said it is impossible to remain indifferent to the tragedy in Sviatohirsk.

“The Church cannot remain indifferent to human suffering. Whoever the person suffering may be, wherever he may be, whatever his background, his pain becomes our pain as well.”

Finally, Maroudis urged Orthodox Christians to preserve compassion and not allow grief and violence to give rise to hostility.

“In a world weary of war, violence and hatred, let us not allow pain to become yet another reason for hatred. Let it instead become an occasion for prayer, humanity and love... And above all, may God grant peace to Ukraine, peace to people’s hearts and peace to the whole world.”

As previously reported by the UOJ, a Bulgarian theologian called the silence surrounding the killing in Sviatohirsk a grave sin.

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