His Beatitude explains who can consider themselves heirs of Prince Vladimir

His Beatitude Metropolitan Onuphry. Photo: news.church.ua

In his sermon on July 28, His Beatitude Metropolitan Onuphry reminded the congregation of the history of the Baptism of Kyivan Rus' by Equal-to-the-Apostles Prince Vladimir, whom the people called "Volodymy the Red Sun" due to the spiritual beauty of his soul and the good deeds he performed after converting to the Orthodox faith. According to the UOC Information and Education Department, the Primate explained who can consider themselves the spiritual heirs of Prince Volodymyr.

"May the Lord help us preserve the holy faith that Prince Volodymyr passed on to us. Those who maintain the faith of Prince Volodymyr are his spiritual children. His children can only be those who live as he did after his baptism," the Archpastor noted.

His Beatitude reminded that the prince used to be cruel, but after being baptized, he became merciful, helping orphans, widows, the elderly, the sick, and all those in need.

"Such changes about Prince Volodymyr occurred thanks to the Holy Orthodox faith. And through his prayers, may the Lord help us lead a worthy life on earth so that we may become heirs of eternal life in Heaven in Christ Jesus, our Lord!" wished Metropolitan Onuphry.

As the UOJ previously reported, His Beatitude officiated the festivities on the Day of the Baptism of Rus' at the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra.

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