On the Sunday of Orthodoxy, Bishop Sofronie of Oradea emphasized the stark contrast between the flood of negative images in contemporary society and the role of holy icons as windows to another reality—the Kingdom of God.
Icons as a Remedy for a Troubled Society
“How many distressing images—of turmoil, anarchy, malice, and violence—are spread across all media platforms, from traditional channels to the latest digital outlets, targeting not only younger generations but also the elderly, who are manipulated by various perception-influencing techniques that have nothing to do with Christianity or God’s will?” said Bishop Sofronie.
In this context, he continued, “Amid the invasion of unchecked violence and aggression, the icon, the holy image, the liturgy, and the presence of the Holy Spirit in the Church’s liturgical communion—and from there into the world—become therapy, medicine, peace, and tranquility.”
Transformation Through Inner Revolution
The Bishop of Oradea stressed that “the Church’s prolonged prayer during the Holy and Great Lent, the devout faces of Saints in icons, and the peace and serenity flowing from the Holy Chalice in Eucharistic communion are the antidote to all violence in the world.”
“The world does not change through revolutions. Revolutions destroy lives,” he stated.
“The world changes through the inner revolution of each of us, by striking down our own sins and selfishness and allowing God’s image to shine in our lives. Each of us, when we come to receive Communion, should not be hypocritical but instead confess, ‘I am the foremost among sinners.’”
Episcopal Anniversary
On the Sunday of Orthodoxy, Bishop Sofronie marked 18 years since his enthronement as Bishop of Oradea. Additionally, on March 11, he celebrated his name day.
Photo: Oradea Bishop
Source: basilica.ro
