Abp. Alexei Delivers Lenten Homily in Anchorage
A Lenten homily in Alaska called the faithful back to patient, step-by-step transformation in Christ.
ANCHORAGE, AK — Abp. Alexei delivered a homily at St. Innocent Cathedral on March 22 during the Divine Liturgy for the Fourth Sunday of Great Lent, when the Church commemorates St. John Climacus and the Forty Martyrs of Sebaste.
In his reflection, Abp. Alexei emphasized that the Christian life is marked by a continual turning toward Christ through prayer, fasting, humility, and perseverance. Referencing the Gospel account of the healing of the afflicted child, he pointed to the father’s cry—“Lord, I believe; help Thou mine unbelief”—as a model of honesty and repentance, underscoring that spiritual growth is often gradual and requires patience.
He further highlighted the teaching of St. John Climacus, noting that the path to salvation unfolds step by step, and is open to all faithful, not only monastics. The endurance of the Forty Martyrs, he added, serves as a powerful witness to steadfast faith, encouraging believers to persevere through Lenten struggles with hope.
The full text of Abp. Alexei's homily can be read here.
Previously, the UOJ published an interview with Abp. Alexei regarding Spruce Island Books and his ministry in Alaska.
