On the 26th Sunday after Pentecost, with the blessing of His Eminence Metropolitan Vladimir, the Divine Liturgy was officiated in the Metropolitan Cathedral by Vicar Bishop Filaret of Capriana.
The Church calls us to reflect upon the miracle wrought by our Saviour Christ through the healing of the woman bowed down with infirmity, as recorded in the Gospel according to Luke (13:10–17). Though weighed down by suffering, she entered the synagogue without uttering a single request; yet the Lord saw her, called her, and healed her. This miracle becomes an exhortation for each of us: no matter how heavy the burdens of life may be, Christ always remains ready to lift us up, to strengthen us, and to restore our inner peace.
On this Sunday we also commemorate Saint Catherine the Great Martyr, a model of wisdom, courage, and steadfastness in faith. Her bold confession before her persecutors shows us that true worth and true illumination are gained through drawing near to God and living one’s faith with dignity and determination.
The miracle of the healing of the bent woman and the example of Saint Catherine call us to an honest look at our own spiritual lives. Let us ask God for the grace to rise from every weakness and to advance with hope along the path of salvation.
Source: Căpriana Monastery