Patriarch of Romania: Jesus Christ brought those who believe in Him to kingdom of heaven

Patriarch Daniel participated in the historic patronal feast of Cernica Monastery on Tuesday. During the event, he spoke about Christ’s glory, why it was revealed on Mount Tabor, and its significance. He was also congratulated on the 37th anniversary of his monastic tonsure.

The festal Divine Liturgy was led by Archimandrite Nectarie Șofelea, the administrative exarch of the Archdiocese of Bucharest.

The Glory of Christ

Patriarch Daniel explained that the glory seen by the apostles Peter, James, and John on Mount Tabor was the paternal glory of the Heavenly Father shared with His Son and the Holy Spirit. This glory was revealed to the disciples in a way adapted to their human limitations.

Why the glory was revealed

The Patriarch highlighted that Jesus revealed His glory to the disciples so they would remember His transfigured state when they saw Him suffering on the cross. This was to strengthen their faith in His divine nature and the plan of salvation.

The Transfiguration did not occur in August

Patriarch Daniel clarified that the Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord was set on August 6 due to the consecration of a church on Mount Tabor, even though the event actually occurred closer to the Lord’s death and resurrection.

The only way to see God

The Patriarch emphasized that seeing God is possible through the human face of Jesus, as Moses and Elijah were able to speak with God face to face on Tabor.

The Face of Jesus

Patriarch Daniel mentioned that the Gospels focused on Jesus’s face filled with glory, rather than physical attributes. He explained that in eternity, Jesus’s face will shine like the sun.

Gifts and Celebrations

As part of the celebrations, Patriarch Daniel presented Cernica Monastery with books and natural incense from Oman. The monastery’s abbot congratulated him on his monastic anniversary and gifted him an icon and a basket of flowers.