Met. Ignatios: Children Today Want to Know the Truth
Photo: orthodoxianewsagency.gr
THESSALY, GREECE — The traditional New Year’s event honoring parish catechists was held on January 4 at the Thessaly Conference Center, bringing together youth ministry leaders, parish priests, and those responsible for youth work across the Local Church.
The gathering opened with the blessing of the New Year’s vasilopita by Met. Ignatios of Demetrias, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to catechists and youth leaders for their selfless service to the Church’s pastoral mission among young people.
In his address, Met. Ignatios spoke about the spiritual disorientation of the modern world, noting that many have lost a sense of direction necessary for peaceful coexistence. He emphasized the central role of faith, stressing that when God is absent from human life, people struggle to find meaning and stability.
Referring specifically to catechetical work, he underlined its importance for children and youth, describing it as vital to helping them encounter and live the truth. He added that even small groups of young people remain a source of hope and blessing for the Church.
The Metropolitan concluded by thanking his collaborators and acknowledging the contributions of Archimandrite Maximos Papaioannou and Archdeacon Fr. Iakovos Proias. The event ended in a festive atmosphere with dinner and live music.
Previously, the UOJ reported on hundreds of children being baptized in Georgia.
Read also
Rep. Luna Responds to UOC Appeal, Vows Action Against Forced Church Seizures in Ukraine
Florida congresswoman says she will document attempts to seize Ukrainian Orthodox Church parishes and hold officials accountable as local faithful plead for international protection.
After Theophany, Parishes Encouraged to Prepare for Annual House Blessings
The Antiochian Archdiocese of North America is urging families, following Theophany, to prepare prayerfully and practically for the traditional house blessing as a way of sanctifying the home and daily life.
Orthodox Seminarians and Alumni Ordained and Elevated Across the Globe
Multiple Orthodox seminarians and alumni were ordained or elevated to higher clerical ranks across several jurisdictions worldwide in late December and early January.
Wave of Conversions Continues with Mass Baptism in Houston
Fifteen people were baptized at an Antiochian Orthodox parish in Houston, reflecting the continuing growth of Orthodox Christianity in the United States.
Synod of Cyprus Places Metr. Tychikos Under Indefinite Suspension
Decision adopted by an 11–5 vote as Church leaders allege refusal to comply with Synodal conditions, despite the hierarch having already submitted a Confession of Faith addressing said requirements.
Metr. Tikhon Celebrates Theophany at St. Mark Orthodox Church
Metr. Tikhon celebrated Theophany at St. Mark Orthodox Church in Bethesda, emphasizing Christ’s baptism as the renewal of creation and the faithful.