Address of His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Rus' on the occasion of Orthodox Youth Day

His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Rus' delivered an address on the occasion of Orthodox Youth Day.

Dear brothers and sisters!

I heartily congratulate you on the Feast of the Meeting of the Lord and Orthodox Youth Day.

Today we recall the Gospel event, filled with deep spiritual meaning: the Most Holy Virgin Mary and righteous Joseph, in order to observe the commandment of the law of God, bring the Infant Jesus to the Jerusalem Temple. Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel (Luke 2:25) and was in prayerful expectation of the coming of the Savior of the world. This meeting is not only the contact of the Old and New Testaments, but also an image of the most important meeting - the meeting of man with God.

Each of us goes through a period of development, associated with certain expectations and hopes. This is especially true for young people, who are inevitably searching for their own path in life and value guidelines, as well as answers to the eternal questions of existence. Youth is a period of opportunities, but at the same time of serious trials and doubts, what is even more important, it is a time when the heart is wide open to meet the Creator.

The Feast of the Meeting of the Lord is also a lesson in loyalty and patience for us. Elder Simeon and Prophetess Anna teach us by their example that a sincere desire for a personal meeting with the Lord is never in vain. Even if the wait seems long and the answer to prayer seems belated, we must remember: God will appear in our lives at the most needed moment, when the soul is most ready to receive Him.

On this bright and festive day, I would like to wish each of you to be bold in faith, unwavering in hope and steadfast in your Christian convictions. May the Heavenly Lord enlighten your hearts and minds, strengthen you in doing good deeds, and inspire you with joy and peace.

May our Lord Jesus Christ, through the prayers of His Most Pure Mother, bless you on all paths of life.

+KIRILL, PATRIARCH OF MOSCOW AND ALL Rus'