site.bta Patriarch Neophyte with Christmas Address to Bulgarians

Patriarch Neophyte with Christmas Address to Bulgarians

Sofia, December 23 (BTA) - Patriarch Neophyte of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church made an address to the Bulgarian people on the eve of Christmas asking them to open their hearts to the suffering and those in need. "On this day, when God in his love and generosity has sent us his Son, let all of us open our hearts to everyone around us and to every suffering soul," the Patriarch said.

He asked the people to follow God's will and help the needy, bring solace to the suffering, hope to the hopeless and show that they are His faithful followers who remember His words "Verily I say unto you, inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these My brethren, ye have done it unto Me" (Matthew 25:40).

The world today is still suffering, shaken by numerous and various calamities, Patriarch Neophyte said. The peace, brought by the birth of Christ on Earth, is now facing all kinds of challenges. Thousands and millions are still suffering and need homes and a way to make a living, as well as the Word of God and the support of the Church and every Christian. "We have to unite around the teaching of Christ and his commandments so that goodness, peace and love may prevail," His Holiness said.