Weekly Message September 6th, 2024

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

As the summer sun sets and we bid farewell to the warm days that many of us spent in the blessed lands of Greece—visiting holy sites, experiencing the beauty of our heritage, and enjoying the serene beaches—we find ourselves returning to the rhythms of daily life. We step back into the familiar routines of work, school, and the ecclesiastical year, refreshed and renewed by the summer's blessings.

This past week marked the beginning of a new school year at A. Fantis School. As is our cherished tradition, we gathered in our beloved Church to start the year with the blessing of the waters. Surrounded by the icons of our faith, we reminded our students, teachers, and families that every good thing begins with prayer. It is through prayer that we invite God’s presence into our lives, seeking His guidance, protection, and wisdom as we embark on another year of learning and growth.

In my message to the students, I emphasized that just as we start our school year with prayer, so too should we begin every new endeavor, every challenge, and every joy with a moment of reflection and connection with our Lord. Prayer is the foundation upon which we build our lives, and it is what sustains us as we navigate the blessings and trials that come our way.

As we move forward into this new ecclesiastical year, let us remember that every step we take is blessed when we walk with God. Whether we are in the classroom, at work, or at home, let us begin each day with prayer, asking for the strength to do good, the wisdom to learn, and the love to serve one another. By keeping prayer at the center of our lives, we ensure that we are always moving forward with purpose and grace.

May this year be one of spiritual growth, academic success, and community unity, guided by the prayers we offer and the faith we share.