“We rejoice, during the period of the Dormition Fast, to celebrate the Canon to the Most Holy Theotokos after Vespers. We turn to Her with hymns and prayers, so that through Her intercessions She may grant us forgiveness of our sins, strengthen us in our daily life, and deliver us from every misfortune; for, as the Mother of our Lord Jesus Christ, She has great boldness before Him and helps us,” emphasized Patriarch Daniel of Bulgaria in his address.
The Patriarch presided over Vespers and the Supplicatory Canon to the Most Holy Theotokos at the Holy Church of Saint Paraskevi in the capital, concelebrating with the parish clergy and priests of the city. Prayerfully present at the service was also Bishop John of Branitza.
In his homily, the Patriarch highlighted the spiritual struggle of the Mother of God and Her fervent intercession for humankind: “The Holy Fathers tell us that the Most Holy Theotokos was the first monastic, who revealed the fruit of virginity and the life that unfolds within it, as well as the life dedicated to the attainment of the heavenly goods. In fullness, She manifested this chaste way of life and inaugurated this struggle for thousands and millions of people who followed Her in it.”
According to him, the Mother of God offers an example to all Orthodox Christians of how to resist temptations, slanders, and trials in life, and how to remain faithful to God, trusting in His good providence.
“No one can withstand the spiritual battle unless they remain steadfast in the faith,” the Patriarch concluded.
