In honor of Christmas, a festive service was held in Bishkek
On the night of January 6 to 7, a solemn service was held at the Holy Resurrection Cathedral in Bishkek in celebration of the Nativity of Christ. The liturgy was led by Bishop Savvaty, who oversees the Bishkek and Kyrgyzstan diocese.
On this significant day for Orthodox Christians, the church was filled with believers who came to celebrate the Birth of the Savior and share in the joy of this great event. Congregants of all ages gathered together to pray at the manger of Christ.
During the service, the Christmas message of His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and all Russia was read, as well as a message from Metropolitan Vikentiy of Tashkent and Uzbekistan, the head of the Central Asian Metropolitan District.
Bishop Savvaty, addressing those gathered, emphasized the deep spiritual significance of Christmas, noting that this holiday should not be limited to just one day but should fill the everyday life of every Christian.
- We should celebrate the Nativity of Christ not just once a year, but daily, reviving the Savior in our hearts. It is important to bring Him a sacrifice of gratitude, prayer, and humility, - the Bishop urged his parishioners.
The Bishop emphasized that the joy of Christmas is available to every person and called on the faithful to fill the festive days with acts of love and mercy.
- We can rejoice even now, both emotionally and spiritually. During the holy Christmas days, it is important to glorify Christ: some through songs, others through good deeds, - he noted.
In his sermon, the archpastor recalled the biblical images of the shepherds and the Magi who came to worship the newborn Savior and urged not to waste the days of the festive season on trivial matters without spiritual content.
The Bishop also highlighted the importance of active love and helping one’s neighbors. He reminded everyone of the various charitable and social projects being implemented in the diocese and that every Christian bears responsibility for helping those in need.
- The Lord served people through simple and necessary deeds. We have the opportunity to continue this service through the House of Mercy and other forms of assistance, not only during the festive season but every day of our lives, - concluded Bishop Savvaty.
In closing his address, he congratulated all those present on the Nativity of Christ, wishing them spiritual well-being, strength, and God's help on their life journey.
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