Metropolitan Dimitrios of France: St Paraskeva unites Orthodox peoples across the Balkans

“St. Paraskeva has become a living bond within the Orthodox family of the Balkans, a common mother and protector of peoples who speak different languages but pray with the same faith and the same heart,” Metropolitan Dimitrios of France and Exarch of Europe (Ecumenical Patriarchate) said on Wednesday at the Metropolitan Cathedral in Iași.

The metropolitan presented the life of St Paraskeva as an example of self-denial, humility and following Christ.

“The young daughter of Epivates did not merely give up a life filled with earthly comforts; she gave up herself,” he said.

“A person may renounce their possessions, part with wealth and honours, but to renounce one’s own will, one’s desires and the urge to seek recognition and promote oneself — that is a daily cross. St Paraskeva carried this Cross not just once, but every day of her life, until her final breath,” the metropolitan emphasised.

The challenges of contemporary society Metropolitan Dimitrios contrasted St Paraskeva’s choice with contemporary society’s tendencies, highlighting her example of humility.

“The contemporary world urges us to assert ourselves, promote ourselves and stand out. Our beloved St Paraskeva,…