Patriarch Daniel of Romania emphasized the transformative power of repentance, prayer, and fasting, stating that “the life of Saint Mary of Egypt teaches us that prayer united with repentance and fasting helps sinners become saints.”
The Patriarch participated on Sunday in the Divine Liturgy celebrated at the historic chapel of Saint George within the Patriarchal Residence.
Reflecting on the life of Saint Mary of Egypt, Patriarch Daniel highlighted her profound repentance and her firm decision to abandon her previous sinful life.
“She crucified her selfish bodily passions and attained the resurrection of the soul from the death caused by sin, sanctifying both soul and body through divine grace,” he noted.
He further stressed that the saint stands as a model of repentance for all people, adding that “the grace of God so greatly transforms a sinful person who sincerely and deeply repents that it can make them a participant in the glory of the Kingdom of Heaven even in this life.”
Interpreting the Gospel readings of the Fifth Sunday of Great Lent, the Patriarch underlined that selfish desires for power and recognition are healed through humble service.
Referring to the request of the sons of Zebedee for prominence, he recalled Christ’s response—“You do not know what you ask”—as well as His call to embrace suffering: “The cup that I drink you will drink, and with the baptism with which I am baptized, you will be baptized.”
Patriarch Daniel warned that, like the disciples, people today may also be tempted by pride and the desire for worldly glory or recognition above others.
Highlighting the true meaning of greatness, he cited the Gospel passage: “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45).
“Humble love for God and for others, expressed through selfless service, is the path that leads to salvation,” he stressed.
Concluding, the Patriarch affirmed that “true honor and dignity come from being a humble servant and a merciful helper to others, regardless of one’s rank in the community or society.”
Source: Basilica.ro, Photo credit: Ziarul Lumina
