Abp. Athanasius Honors Orthodox Youth in the Diaspora
Abp. Athanasius praised Orthodox youth in the diaspora as authentic witnesses of faith and living bridges between generations.
LONDON — Abp. Athanasius of Great Britain and Northern Ireland expressed his gratitude to Orthodox youth, particularly those living outside their home countries, during remarks highlighting the challenges and spiritual opportunities facing young people in the diaspora.
“For many of them, the journey of the diaspora begins early: new schools, fragile friendships, unspoken questions and a longing for home,” His Eminence said, reflecting on the complex realities young people face. “They are the generation learning to live between different languages, cultures and rhythms, yet perhaps more than ever they are searching for a meaning that does not fade.”
The Archbishop emphasized the Church’s role as a true place of belonging. “The Church often becomes the place where the heart gathers together, where you are not a stranger, where your name is spoken with affection, and your joy is truly shared.” He further observed, “Young people are not looking for ready-made formulas, but for authenticity. Not lofty speeches, but a living witness. They want to know that Christ is not distant from their concrete lives, but present in their daily choices, struggles and hopes.”
Abp. Athanasius also highlighted the unique role of young people in sustaining faith across generations: “In the diaspora, young people are often a living bridge between generations – between parents who carry the longing of departure and children who are already growing up in a different world. They can become translators of the faith, not only through words, but through gestures, chant, service, volunteering and, above all, friendship.”
Previously, the UOJ reported that the Romanian Orthodox Church inaugurated a new cathedral in Ireland.
