Spiritual guidance when taking the oathtranslated

On October 16, 2026, the head of the diocesan department for interaction with the Armed Forces and law enforcement agencies, rector of the Church of the Great Martyr and Healer Panteleimon, Priest Alexander Kossov, took part in the solemn ceremony of taking the Oath and awarding employees of the Main Directorate of the Federal Bailiff Service for the Kirov Region. In his address to the newly sworn-in employees, Father Alexander emphasized the importance of not only strictly following the law, but also maintaining humanity in difficult work activities. He wished the employees to show restraint and patience, and most importantly, to see in each person, even the offender, an individual, and not just a committed offense. This attitude, according to the priest, helps to maintain inner dignity and not become bitter in the service. The words of the pastor's parting words are consonant with many instructions of the holy fathers about the need to combine truth and mercy.

Thus, Saint Tikhon of Zadonsk reminded: “Where there is no love, there is no truth; for love is the fulfilling of the law.” And the Monk Ambrose of Optina taught that “patience and meekness are more pleasing to God than all sacrifices” - these virtues are especially important where...