On Palm Sunday, April 5, 2026, Metropolitan Cleopas of Sweden delivered a deeply theological and pastoral homily during the ordination to the priesthood of Rev. Dr. Christian Nils Krister Tano at St. George Cathedral in Stockholm.
Opening his address, the Metropolitan highlighted the significance of the day, stating: “On this luminous day when we celebrate the triumphant entry of our Lord into Jerusalem, we gather in joy to ordain Reverend Deacon Christian as Presbyter.” He praised the ordinand as “a man of faith, science and unselfish love.”
Addressing the newly ordained priest, he recalled his long-standing ministry: “For more than twenty years you have voluntarily offered diaconal service to your ageing spiritual father… You have cared for him in his declining years with the gentleness of the Good Samaritan.”
He added that the Church now “honours that quiet ministry of compassion” and expressed gratitude for his continued service, particularly in northern Sweden.
Metropolitan Cleopas also referred to the founding of a new parish in Luleå, saying: “May this new parish become an oasis of prayer and a refuge for the faithful in northern Sweden.” He encouraged the new priest to follow the example of Saint Tychon the Athonite, emphasizing obedience, prayer, and love.
A central theme of the homily was the unity of medical and spiritual ministry. The Metropolitan noted: “Your ordination as a doctor–priest is deeply rooted in the life of the Church.”
Citing Scripture, he reminded the faithful: “Honor physicians for their services, for the Lord created them,” and stressed that healing is both physical and spiritual.
He drew from the teachings of the Church Fathers, especially Saint Basil the Great, who taught that medicine is a gift from God, and from Saint John Chrysostom, quoting: “The Church is a hospital and not a courtroom; do not leave without receiving healing.”
He also referenced the example of Saint Luke of Simferopol, noting how a priest can serve both body and soul without contradiction.
Encouraging the new priest in his dual vocation, the Metropolitan said: “In your clinic you will anoint wounds with the skill of your hands, and in the church you will anoint souls with the grace of the Holy Spirit.”
He concluded by expressing gratitude for the ordinand’s dedication and welcoming his family, stating: “We rejoice that you now join the ranks of priest–physicians whose healing hands glorify God.”
Finally, he offered his blessing: “May the Lord grant you many years of fruitful ministry, health and strength… and may you help your flock to walk toward the Kingdom of God. Amen!”
