Ternopil, March 12, 2015
What is essential to remember for a Christian who is being persecuted? Metropolitan Sergius of Ternopil and Kremenets (Ukrainian Orthodox Church, which has been under particular pressure from the Uniates and the so-called “Kiev Patriarchate”) has answered the questions of the Pravlife.org portal.
“Sorrows and persecutions drive us to turn to God. It seems, humanly speaking, there is no hope, and we are persecuted, so we must seek salvation from God. If it were not for sorrows, we would probably not have turned to God. One should not be afraid of this,” His Eminence said. When he was asked: what those currently experiencing various hardships should do, he replied: “Turn to God more zealously and be humble before the will of God. Be drawn to God alone.
This is the call of God that reminds us that He is our only Savior and the One Who will help us in any circumstances. The state of sorrow just reminds us about it. And such human behavior indicates that “all men are liars” (Ps. 115:11) and the Lord is the Savior. This is what we will keep in mind, like the first Christians; this is what we will strive for. And will all together set our hopes upon God’s help.”
