Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia declared that both monastic service and the defense of the Motherland necessitate complete self-renunciation. This statement was made after a divine liturgy at the Holy Trinity-Sergius Lavra, on the day the Russian Orthodox Church observes the commemoration of the uncovering of the relics of Saint Sergius of Radonezh, the revered founder of this ancient monastery.
The Patriarch elucidated the profound similarities between the spiritual endeavor of serving God and the patriotic act of defending one`s homeland. In both instances, he noted, individuals are called upon to set aside personal desires and worldly ambitions. Patriarch Kirill powerfully emphasized this point, stating:
“Nothing should be for oneself—only for the good of the Church! And all that is for oneself is harmful to the soul, leading to perdition. It is only by serving God`s cause that the exalted position of archpastors and their material well-being can be justified.”
His Holiness further stressed that, particularly within the hallowed confines of the Holy Trinity-Sergius Lavra, the episcopate of the Russian Orthodox Church bears a crucial responsibility for the destiny of the nation and its people. He urged both clergy and laity to engage in introspection, questioning whether their lives, prayers, and labors genuinely embody and continue the spiritual feats of the holy fathers who have shone forth in the Russian land.
Concluding his address, the Primate of the Russian Orthodox Church expressed his fervent wish that the Lord would assist everyone in bearing their life`s cross with dignity. He called upon all to consistently remember the welfare of both the Church and their Fatherland, advocating for continuous prayer not only for themselves and their loved ones, but also for the authorities, the military, the nation, and the Church itself. Patriarch Kirill conveyed his firm belief that it is through the collective power of these prayers, rather than human strength, that the Lord will extend His divine blessing over the country, its people, the armed forces, and this sacred monastery, along with its inhabitants.
