“As human beings, we have a moral obligation to protect the lives of others. It is not possible to live the life God has given us without protecting the lives of others. Life is the greatest gift, which is underestimated the most,” Metropolitan Gabriel of Nea Ionia said in his homily.
The Metropolitan of Nea Ionia celebrated the Divine Liturgy behind closed doors today, on the third Sunday of Great Lent (Sunday of the Veneration of the Holy Cross), at the Church of Saint Efstathios in Nea Ionia.
Moreover, he said, “We are living in unprecedented times that people will always remember. That is why we all must do unprecedented things as well. At this time we are all making sacrifices for our beloved ones. We are staying home and praying for the doctors and the researchers, who are fighting the pandemic, but also for the patients.”
In addition, he pointed out, “The only thing we can do to help is to stay in our homes. The more we are cautious, the more we will remain safe. We, as Christians, have to realise that it is very important to protect the lives of others by doing simple things, which can change our lives.”
He also emphasised, “As human beings, we refused to taste the gift of life given by God and to offer it to others as well. We all have to change the way we live. We have to realise that we are not only affected by the coronavirus, but also by our own blindness. 5.2 million children died in Africa last year! Are you aware of the fact that many people lose their lives every day because of our mistakes? We refused to give humans what they actually deserve. So, let us exalt the Lord, as He did at Calvary. We need to become more human. We have to respect the environment that belongs to all of us.”
“God tests us in order to make us better. The Holy Cross will give us strength and hope to carry on. Do not lose your hope, God will not forsake us,” he concluded.
