Patriarch Porfirije: The time for repentance is limited, don’t delay it

Patriarch Porfirije. Photo: Serbian Orthodox Church

In his sermon, Serbian Patriarch Porfirije addressed the faithful with spiritual guidance, warning of two main deceptions that demonic forces use to divert people from God’s path, reports the press service of the Serbian Orthodox Church.

The first deception lies in convincing us that we have plenty of time for repentance. The Patriarch stated:
“Demonic forces tell us there is time for ascetic effort, repentance, and love, and that we don’t need to hurry to struggle against our passions, especially pride and self-centeredness.”

The Serbian Primate reminded everyone that no one knows the moment they will meet God.

The second, more serious deception, according to the Patriarch, is that demons try to convince people they do not exist. Porfirije emphasized:
“They do exist, brothers and sisters!”

The Patriarch also noted that demons have no power over a person unless that power is granted to them through free will:
“Demonic forces have no authority over us unless we give them a reason and the right to rule over us. We grant them this right through our choices.”

He concluded his sermon by reminding the faithful that only God’s will is stronger than human will, and it is the only force that governs humanity.

As previously reported by the UOJ, the Serbian Patriarch has called for interfaith dialogue.

Read also

In Ukraine, Trump’s 'spiritual advisor' reassured of religious freedom

Pastor Mark Burns stated that Ukraine, despite the war, is a "beacon of religious freedom."

Lavra brethren congratulate Metropolitan Pavel on 31 years as abbot

The monks of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra have expressed hope that they will soon be able to pray again with their abbot.

Amsterdam: Intrusion into Lavra Caves – a return to Soviet-era persecution

International lawyer Robert Amsterdam has condemned the actions of Ukraine’s Ministry of Culture regarding the inspection of holy relics in the Caves of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, calling it a violation of religious freedom.

Over 20 EU states condemn Hungary for ban on LGBT propaganda among children

“This restricts the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression,” diplomats state in a joint declaration.

His Beatitude officiates consecration of Bishop of Rakhiv

At the Church of St. Agapitus in the Lavra, the Primate of the UOC ordained a vicar for the Khust Eparchy.

Met Victor: It is painful to see Lavra's relics turned into test subjects

According to the bishop, there is particular concern over how members of the scientific commission will handle the holy relics.