“Saint Callinicus is also a witness of the Resurrection. He passed to the Lord on the very day of Easter; therefore, he is a witness to the unending light of the Kingdom of God,” Metropolitan Irineu of Oltenia said at Frăsinei Monastery in Vâlcea County, which honoured the saint as its founder.
“Saint Callinicus of Cernica remains in our hearts and throughout the Diocese of Râmnic and New Severin. This place is marked by his holiness; he is our protector and our intercessor before the Heavenly Throne.”
Metropolitan Irineu also recalled that on the day of his passing, Saint Callinicus said, “May we meet again in Paradise!”
Emmaus house, the first church
In his homily, the Metropolitan of Oltenia also spoke about the Gospel read in churches on the third day of Holy Pascha, which recounts the encounter of two disciples with the Lord on the road to Emmaus. The house in Emmaus was, in fact, the first Christian church, he stressed.
“The Saviour Jesus Christ showed that the breaking of the bread is the sacrifice that enlightens, that reveals the true light. This is the light of grace which illumines and sanctifies,” the metropolitan added.
“The eyes of Saints Luke and Cleopas were opened at the breaking of the bread, which shows us that after the Divine Liturgy we must seek our Saviour Jesus Christ. The Lord disappears so that He may reveal Himself in the soul when we seek Him.”
The service for Saint Callinicus of Cernica was held on Bright Tuesday this year, as his usual feast day fell on Holy Saturday.
Photo: Metropolis of Oltenia
