Dear friends!
Today, we celebrate a great and bright Feast — the Nativity of the Most Holy Theotokos. This Feast is pure joy, a testimony of God's love for us, the beginning of our salvation. Where to find words to express the greatness of She Who was born of devout and righteous earthly parents and became more honourable than the Cherubim and more glorious than the Seraphim?

The path to reconciliation of Heaven and earth began with the birth of the Most Holy Virgin Mary. This event became a response to centuries-long prayers of people who desired a release from sin and death. 'Not a single human heart is able to love all people with such love as the love which the Mother of God loves us with', wrote the Righteous John of Kronstadt.

The Most Holy Theotokos is our guiding star. Her life is an example of deep faith and devotion to God. Having experienced all the hardships of the earthly path, She ignores no tear, no prayer. The Mother of God is especially close to those who oppose temptations and passions, try to live according to the commandments of God, and keep faithfulness to Her Divine Son Jesus Christ and His Holy Orthodox Church.

And coincidentally, it is on this day that the International Day of Peace is celebrated. Peace is that grace the lack of which we feel so acutely today and which we pray the Lord and the Most Holy Theotokos for. In our prayers, we constantly ask for the cessation of war and bloodshed, for mercy, and for peace. And I am sure that our prayers will be heard.

May the Feast of the Nativity of the Most Holy Theotokos become a source of hope and spiritual strength for all of us.

Glory to God for His great works and His love for us. May the Most Holy Theotokos always be with us, covering us with Her holy omophorion and protecting us from many troubles.

I wish everyone peace as soon as possible, constant joy of heart, unwavering spiritual firmness, and unity!