Patriarch Bartholomew: Like Christ, we hear only slander from our children
The head of the Constantinople Patriarchate stated that, like the Lord, he hears only accusations from his children.
Patriarch Bartholomew led the divine service at the Holy Trinity Monastery on the island of Halki (Turkey) on the feast day of Saint Photios, Patriarch of Constantinople. As reported by Romfea, the head of the Patriarchate of Constantinople made an assessment of the current state of the world during his sermon.
According to him, today, when "the sound of weapons resounds in many parts of the planet and, little by little, the modern world is sinking into the shadow of fear and uncertainty," the Church of Constantinople, as in the times of Saint Photios, continues to stand unshakably.
"The icy north wind, which blows violently once again, hissing the roars of matriarchs, cannot extinguish the warmth of her heart. She awaits lovingly and patiently the return of her children, who have turned their heel against her, with open arms, like the merciful father of the parable, or rather like the Lord himself on the Cross," declared the Patriarch.
He also believes that the Church of Constantinople, "crucified with Christ," accepts suffering for the sake of her children and, despite accusations and slander, does not come down from the Cross.
"And despite the cries of ungrateful children, despite the false accusations that 'she has a demon and is furious' (John 10:20), she does not abandon the Cross. This is the timeless message of the Ecumenical Patriarchate: We do not fear! We continue unwavering on the Cross; on the ramparts, where divine Providence has placed us, to defend the holy and sacred things of the faith," said Patriarch Bartholomew with confidence.
As the UOJ reported, earlier the Patriarch of Constantinople threatened his critics with Judgment Day.
