Hierarch of the Church of Greece: Persecution is a testimony to holiness
Metropolitan Seraphim of Piraeus. Photo: orthodoxianewsagency
On July 27, 2025, during the Divine Liturgy, Metropolitan Seraphim of Piraeus told the faithful that persecution and martyrdom are testimonies of true holiness.
According to the hierarch, the acceptance of suffering, tribulation, and trials is not a sign of weakness, but rather genuine discipleship in Christ.
“Christ died for us – and His disciples are called to drink the same cup of suffering,” said the Metropolitan.
Concluding his homily, Metropolitan Seraphim stated:
“Suffering, persecution, and martyrdom are testimonies to the authenticity of holiness. Let us also ask God for grace – with a pure heart, with repentance, and with the resolve to imitate Christ.”
Earlier, the UOJ reported that, according to Metropolitan Seraphim, the devil wants churches to be full of “rotten” Christians.
Read also
Greece signs memorandum on protection of Jerusalem Patriarchate's shrines
Next week, the Greek Parliament will ratify a document on the protection of the cultural heritage of the Jerusalem Patriarchate.
Greek bishop calls imposition of same-sex marriage a threat
Metropolitan Seraphim of Kythera urged families to become a “domestic church” amid threats to the Christian family in Greek laws and school curricula.
Patriarch Bartholomew arrives in Budapest for opening of Orthodox center
The Ecumenical Patriarch has arrived in Hungary, where he will preside over the consecration of the Orthodox center "Phanarion."
OCU raiders stage attack on seized church in Kyiv, media
OCU "hierarch" Serhiy Horobtsov published a provocative post online regarding St. John's Church in Bykivnia seized by his people.