Orthodoxy Puts the Pieces of the Puzzle Together (Sermon)

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By Metropolitan Demetrius of America
Created on Sunday, 18 October 2026 22:54

A Whole Cloud of Witnesses

The Church is not limited to those living visibly among us.Metropolitan Demetrius reminds us of the “whole cloud of witnesses” and explains that the righteous who have passed from this life are not spiritually dead.

“When somebody passes from death into life, he is more alive.”

The saints remain part of the life of the Church, and their love for Christ is also manifested in their prayers for us.

“It is a great blessing for us that we have them on our side.”

St. John Gave His Life for Christ

The sermon turns especially to St. John, whose relics are honored on this feast.

Metropolitan Demetrius describes a life of sacrifice, obedience, and service:

“He gave his life for the sick, the maimed. He gave his life for the orphans and the widows.”

“He gave his life for Christ.”

St. John is presented as one who truly picked up his cross and followed Christ. Though constantly tired from his labors, he remained “energetic in the life in Christ.”

Get to Know the Saints

Metropolitan Demetrius concludes by encouraging Orthodox Christians not only to read about the saints, but to develop a real relationship with them through prayer.

“We actually get to know the saints, not just by reading their lives, but especially by praying to them, by spending time on our knees before them.”

May the prayers of St. John and all the saints help us to live in Christ, remain focused on our salvation, and make our way toward the heavenly kingdom.

Orthodox Awareness

Refutation of an "Encyclical Sermon"

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by His Grace, Bishop Clement of Gardikion, Secretary of the Holy Synod

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