The “Youth in Action” volunteers were celebrated Tuesday evening at a gala held at the Patriarchal Palace. His Beatitude Patriarch Daniel attended the gala and praised their dedication to the Church’s activities.
The event was moderated by Archdeacon Eugen Maftei, Advisor for Education and Youth Activities in Bucharest’s Archdiocese.
His Beatitude Patriarch Daniel expressed gratitude for the volunteers’ contributions:
“We thank you for your involvement in the missionary life and activities of the Church and pray that the Holy Trinity, the Mother of God, and all the saints grant you health, happiness, peace, and joy, along with support for all good deeds,” His Beatitude noted.
In his speech, Patriarch Daniel emphasized that in a world filled with fleeting illusions of selfish happiness, the true meaning is found in living with Christ and through Christ, the Source of eternal love and joy.
“Volunteering is one of the purest forms of generous love—a practice through which we learn to love and serve without expecting anything in return,” the Patriarch noted, underscoring its value as a testimony of faith in action and an imitation of God’s love.
Marius Ciulu, who oversees youth activities within the Archdiocese, reflected on the past year: “This evening fills us with joy and gratitude as we review a year of dedication to the Church’s work and service to others.”
The gala included a video by Trinitas TV showcasing the volunteers’ involvement in various projects, including the Orthodox Youth Meeting in the Archdiocese of Bucharest, the historic pilgrimage with the relics of Saint Demetrius the New, and the commemoration of 250 years since their arrival in the capital.
The “Youth in Action” group gathers volunteers from parishes and youth organizations throughout Bucharest, demonstrating a shared commitment to service and community.
Please visit our Photo gallery section to see more pictures from the event.
Photo: Basilica.ro / Mircea Florescu
