Divine Liturgy in the Intercession Cathedral of Samaratranslated

On August 16, 2026, on the 11th Sunday after Pentecost, Metropolitan Theodosius of Samara and Novokuybyshevsk led the Divine Liturgy at the Intercession Cathedral in the city of Samara. His Eminence was served by the clergy of the cathedral. During the Liturgy, the Gospel Conception from Matthew (Matthew 18:23–35) was read - the parable of the merciless debtor. In it, the Lord reminds us of the need to forgive our neighbors: “So will My Heavenly Father do to you, if each of you does not forgive his brother his sins from his heart.” Reflecting on this Gospel reading, Saint Theophan the Recluse draws attention to the fact that forgiveness seems like a small requirement, but it is precisely this that often turns out to be one of the most difficult for a person. Self-love makes you keep a grudge in your heart for a long time, even when outwardly the relationship remains calm. At the same time, the saint reminds: the Lord demands not only external reconciliation, but sincere forgiveness - “from the bottom of my heart.” Through forgiveness of one's neighbor, a person himself opens up to God's mercy.