On the occasion of “World Day Against Drugs”, Archbishop Ieronymos II of Athens and All Greece issued a statement addressing a deeply pastoral yet strongly social message to the faithful of the Church and to society at large.
In his message, the Archbishop addresses the complex and painful issue of addiction. He highlights the devastating consequences of drugs on individuals’ and families’ lives, as well as the deeper social and existential causes that lead to escape and despair. He also emphasises the need for cooperation between institutions such as the family, education, the state, and the church to prevent addiction, provide treatment, and facilitate social reintegration. Finally, he offers a message of hope and support to those engaged in the daily struggle of recovery.
Read below the Archbishop’s message:
My dear children,
Today’s “World Day Against Drugs” calls on us once again to take responsibility and be honest about a problem that continues to cause great harm to modern humanity and test the resilience of our society.
Behind the statistics and public discussions are real people. There are young men and women whose dreams have been shattered; parents in distress; families under strain; and hearts seeking help, but often unable to find it. Addiction is not merely a personal tragedy; it is a wound that affects society as a whole.
Despite the unprecedented communication possibilities of our era, loneliness remains widespread, and the abundance of goods has not provided direction or hope. Technological progress has not always been matched by an equal development of humanity’s spiritual and moral capacities. Thus, voids are created, which are often attempted to be filled with false escapes and temporary forms of flight.
Drugs promise relief but deliver bondage; they promise forgetfulness but cause greater pain. They promise freedom, but lead to the harshest form of captivity. Therefore, the struggle against addiction must not be limited to combating substances; we must also address the deeper causes that lead a person to despair, surrender, and escape from life.
It is the duty of the family, the school, society, the state, and the church to cooperate in preventing, treating, and socially reintegrating our fellow humans who are addicted. Prevention is the most effective way of addressing the problem. This means providing education, showing love and support, being present, engaging in dialogue, and taking a genuine interest in others, especially young people who are searching for their identity and purpose.
Today, we would like to express our deepest gratitude to all healthcare professionals, volunteers, therapists, and others who selflessly dedicate themselves to the challenging work of addiction treatment and prevention.
However, we particularly honour the individuals who are struggling themselves — those who fight every day to reclaim their lives. They prove by their example that falling is not the end. Let us all remember today that no one is alone in their struggle. No matter how deep the darkness, God’s light remains stronger. No matter how difficult the path to recovery may be, love, support, and faith can open new doors.
May the Lord of life and freedom strengthen all those who struggle, support their families, and enlighten our society, making it more humane, more solidarity-based, and more open to the essential meanings and timeless values of life.
With paternal blessings and love,
The Archbishop
Ieronymos II of Athens
