Saint Kallinikos Bishop of Edessa: Sacrifice must distinguish my High Priestly life!translated

Excerpt from the enthronement speech of Saint Kallinikos Metropolitan of Edessa in Edessa: "I am already on high terms. I am called to watch over, to supervise, to oversee, to observe, to watch over the reasonable sheep.

I have already been assigned by the Treasury of goods to secure treasures of incalculable value, to preserve souls, "for Christ died" (1 Cor. 8, 11). The task is difficult, the mission is heavy.

I listen to the Apostle Paul teaching: "see the Bishop who is unobtrusive, sober, sober, worldly, hospitable, instructive" (1 Tim. 3, 2).

I hear the Lord speaking: "the good shepherd lays down his soul for the sheep" (John 1:11).

I see Apostles, having surrendered their souls for the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ (Acts 10:26), being sacrificed for the Shepherd and suffering a martyr's death.

I see the Holy Fathers fighting fiercely in favor of the Faith, and receiving unprecedented persecutions.

I see Bishops hanged and beheaded for the sake of their Flock.

What am I saying? I see this Leader of our Faith Crucified.

Well, the lot of the Bishop is not a throne, but a cross.

The Bishop ascends first…