Patriarch Daniel of Romania attended the Divine Liturgy on Sunday, August 30, 2026, at the historic Chapel of the Holy Great Martyr George at the Patriarchal Residence.
In his sermon, the Patriarch reflected on the Parable of the Wicked Tenants, emphasizing that God gives people the freedom to choose whether they will follow His will.
“The owner’s departure to a distant place symbolizes the great freedom granted to the tenants, but also God’s great patience,” Patriarch Daniel said.
He explained that the landowner did not remain beside the tenants to supervise them closely, showing how deeply God respects human freedom.
“God grants people freedom so that they may freely fulfil His will. They can choose between being faithful and grateful or unfaithful and ungrateful. They can choose between being honest and good workers or deceitful and wicked ones,” he said.
At the same time, the Patriarch clarified that the landowner’s departure should not be understood as indifference, since he continued to send servants to see how the vineyard was being cared for.
Referring to the call to serve, Patriarch Daniel said that God’s work through those He chooses is intended to prepare people for salvation and eternal life in His Kingdom.
“The Gospel tells us that it is a privilege to be called to fulfil this divine plan. However, if someone does not respond to God’s call, He calls others who are more worthy—honest, humble, diligent and good workers who do not carry malice, deceit or greed in their souls,” he stressed.
The Patriarch also addressed the responsibility of those who serve the Church, warning against treating the Church as their own possession.
“This parable calls us, the servants of Christ’s Church, to exercise great responsibility. We must not seek to rule over the Church, but care for and serve the flock entrusted to us,” he said.
“Each of us will answer before God, the Owner of the vineyard, according to the spiritual fruits we offer Him through our work, enlightened and supported by His grace,” Patriarch Daniel concluded.
Source: basilica.ro
Photo: Ziarul Lumina
