Örebro, Saturday, October 25, 2025
Very Reverend and Rev. Fathers,
Dearly Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Today, with reverence and great joy, we celebrate St. Demetrios of Thessaloniki, the glorious martyr and myrrh-streamer, whose steadfast faith continues to shine as a beacon of hope for the entire Church.
St. Demetrios was still a young man when he confessed Christ before the rulers of this world. His youth was not an obstacle but a strength — a heart aflame with pure devotion, unburdened by fear, focused on the Kingdom of God with the clarity that the Gospel brings.
The Church therefore honors him as a special guardian and protector of young people. Through his life we see that holiness is not the achievement of old age alone; sanctity applies to all age groups.
He could have chosen personal comfort, pursued worldly honor, or remained silent in order to save himself. But instead, he used his gifts and position to lift others up, to encourage the righteous, and to proclaim the truth even when it placed him in danger. He inspired the youth of Thessaloniki then — and continues to inspire young people today — to serve others, to protect those who are vulnerable, and to radiate Christ’s love in a world often filled with confusion and hardship.
His sacrifice — pierced by spears for the sake of the Gospel — reveals a vision not limited by earthly life, but filled with eternal purpose. More than seventeen centuries have passed since his martyrdom, yet his memory is alive because true love never fades, and true faith never dies.
His holy myrrh, which has flowed from his relics through the ages, reminds us that God glorifies those whose hearts are steadfast in love.
St. John Chrysostom calls the martyrs “friends of Christ,” who follow Him faithfully even unto death.
St. Basil the Great teaches us that the martyrs “prefer virtue to life and death to sin,” a truth we see embodied in St. Demetrios.
St. Gregory Palamas praises him as “the mighty defender of Thessaloniki and an unshakable tower for the faithful.”
Young and old alike — let us look to St. Demetrios and allow his example to give shape and direction to our own calling: to be courageous in faith, committed to service, filled with compassion, and unashamed to proclaim Christ in our lives.
May the youth of our parish especially find in him a true friend and heavenly protector — someone who understands their struggles and calls them to greatness, rooted in Christ’s love.
As we honor St. Demetrios today, we also express heartfelt gratitude to our beloved pastor, the Rev. Oikonomos Fr. George Arvanitidis, who guides this flock with faithfulness, and genuine love. Father, we thank you for your dedicated ministry to Christ’s Holy Church and for nurturing our spiritual growth. May the Lord grant you many blessed years and continue to strengthen you in every good work.
To the faithful of this parish and to those who have traveled from other cities and Oslo, to share in this celebration, your presence is a treasured gift. Thank you for honoring St. Demetrios and for uniting your prayers with ours as one family of Christ across distances and nations. Amen!
