Fear has no power where there is faith in Christ, sermon near Lavra says
The priest at the prayer vigil reminded the faithful of the power of living faith, confirmed by saints and martyrs.
During the prayer vigil near the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, a priest of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, Father George, addressed the faithful with a sermon dedicated to the Gospel event of the Apostle Thomas's belief and the significance of faith in a Christian's life.
He reminded that the Apostle Thomas, wishing to be convinced of Christ's Resurrection, touched the wounds of the Savior and confessed: "My Lord and my God." According to the preacher, this Gospel episode is particularly close to modern man, who often lacks living and firm faith.
The priest emphasized that today's Christians have much more evidence of truth than the first disciples: this includes the Holy Scripture, the apostolic witness, and the lives of holy martyrs. As an example, he cited Saint Antipas of Pergamon, who, despite persecution, remained faithful to Christ and testified to the power of faith even unto death.
In concluding his sermon, he noted that faith is primarily trust in God in all life circumstances. Despite trials, Christians are called to maintain prayer, thanksgiving, and repentance, remembering that in Christ victory over fear and death has already been won.
"Christ is risen, dear brothers and sisters!" Father George concluded his spiritual instruction.
As the UOJ reported, prayer vigils near the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra are held regularly. Prayer at the Church of Saint Sergius of Radonezh near the monastery is offered practically every evening. The faithful are urged to join common prayer for the preservation of the holy sites, the monastery brotherhood, and for peace in Ukraine.
