Metropolitan Epifaniy: Christian patience is a sign of inner strength, mot weakness

On the Seventh Sunday after Pentecost, July 19, 2026, Metropolitan Epifaniy of Kyiv and All Ukraine celebrated the Divine Liturgy at St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Cathedral in Kyiv.

Concelebrating with the Primate of the autocephalous Orthodox Church of Ukraine were Bishop Rafail of Makariv, the brotherhood of St. Michael’s Monastery, and invited clergy.

Following the Gospel reading, Metropolitan Epifaniy delivered his primatial homily and offered a special prayer for Ukraine as the country continues to endure the hardships and dangers of war.

During the Divine Liturgy, prayers were also offered for the Ukrainian armed forces defending the country, for the nation’s authorities and people, and for the repose of the souls of all fallen defenders of Ukraine and civilians who have lost their lives during the war.

Reflecting on the Apostle Paul’s exhortation that “we who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not please ourselves” (Romans 15:1), Metropolitan Epifaniy emphasized that patience is one of the essential Christian virtues because it is directly connected with salvation.

Quoting Christ’s words, “By your patience possess your souls” (Luke 21:19), he…