During the liturgy, priest Georgy Dvorov delivered the Christmas message prepared by His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and all Russia.
Before the start of his sermon, Bishop Savvaty introduced the parishioners to the Christmas message from Metropolitan Vikentiy of Tashkent and Uzbekistan, who is the head of the Central Asian Metropolitan District.
In his address to the faithful, Bishop Savvaty emphasized that Christmas is not only a remembrance of an important event that took place over two thousand years ago but also an important component of the spiritual life of modern Christians. He urged everyone to celebrate Christmas not just once a year but daily, continually reviving in their hearts the image of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. "We must bring Him sacrifices of gratitude, prayers, service, humility, and meekness," added the archpastor.
Savvaty also noted that during the holiday, it is inappropriate to succumb to despondency or complaints. "We should strive for the joy of God and the joy of service," he said. In conclusion, the bishop reminded about various social and charitable initiatives operating in the diocese.
