People systematically overlook the fact that the ethos of the Church is
centered on compassion: everything in our life revolves around compassion,
and compassion is the wellspring of all our blessings.
Genuine ascesis in Christ, as a constant struggle to overcome our selves,
is strongly motivated by compassion and by a self-sacrificial exodus from
the prison of self-love, such that through love for our brothers and
sisters we might be guided towards love for God.
“Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful” (St. Luke
6:36). Only through compassion will we become lovers of God and beloved of
God; only through compassion will we become like God and attain to
deification.
Encyclical
The Outset of the New Ecclesiastical Year (September 1, 2012, Old Style)
From Self-Love to the Love of God by Way of Love for One’s Brothers and
Sisters
The Compassion-Centered Ethos of the Church
Bishop Cyprian
--
Priest Seraphim Holland
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