Patriarch Daniel of Romania elevated 30 clergy to higher ecclesiastical ranks, stressing the responsibility and demands of clerical ministry.
“This ministry in the Church is a form of martyrdom — to be honourable, to be correct and to be diligent,” the Patriarch said.
Speaking during the ceremony held at the Patriarchal Residence in Bucharest last Thursday, Patriarch Daniel emphasised that promotion in the Orthodox Church is not an honorary distinction but a recognition of pastoral and missionary service.
“This elevation or promotion is a recognition of special activities, efforts, and preparation for the work of the Church. You were called to mission — because this is the priesthood,” he said.
Greater responsibility
The Patriarch underlined that a higher rank brings not only honour but also additional responsibility.
“This form of promotion or advancement is also an obligation — an added responsibility. Saint John Chrysostom says that when a crown is placed upon the head, the whole body is honoured.”
He added that ecclesiastical ranks honour not only the cleric but also the parish he serves.
“The honour granted to a cleric extends to the community he leads. When someone becomes an oikonomos or stavrophore oikonomos, this honour is transferred to the parish as well.”
Virtues of Church ministry
Patriarch Daniel highlighted the virtues required of Church servants — diligence, faith, and devotion — while also warning against temptations that can undermine ministry, including laziness and lack of integrity in managing Church assets.
“When a person remains inactive and passive, he buries his talent instead of multiplying it,” he said.
He recalled the example of Saint Barnabas, mentioned in the prayer of elevation to higher ecclesiastical ranks, as a model of dedication and good stewardship.
“He used his wealth for the mission of the Church and confessed the faith at the cost of his life. He was good, victorious, and a martyr.”
Concluding the ceremony, the Patriarch encouraged the newly elevated clergy to continue their work with joy and intense missionary zeal, wishing them God’s help in their ministry.
Photo: Lumina Lumina / Luigi Ivanciu
Source: basilica.ro