“The radiant garment of a faithful and pure soul is the very presence of God’s grace within us,” Patriarch Daniel of Romania said on Sunday during the Divine Liturgy at the Chapel of St George at the Patriarchal Residence.
In his homily, the Patriarch explained the parable of the Wedding Feast of the King’s Son, highlighting its central teachings concerning salvation, the Church and Christian life.
He explained that the king who prepares the wedding feast is God the Father, while the king’s son is the Lord Jesus Christ. The bride represents the Church, namely all peoples called to salvation through faith and Baptism.
“Pagan peoples were also called to salvation because the love of the Heavenly King is universal and embraces all humanity. Although it favours some, it excludes no one,” Patriarch Daniel said.
Referring to the wedding garment, he emphasised that all people are called to salvation, but those who respond to God’s call through faith, prayer, a pure life and good works become the chosen.
“The Gospel of the call to salvation is linked to the mystery of our freedom: Do we respond to God’s call or reject it? Do we clothe our souls in the new garment of sanctifying grace and a pure life, or do we wear the worn-out garment of sin?” he asked.
The Patriarch explained that the wedding garment symbolises the grace of Christ received at Baptism. This garment of light is preserved and renewed through prayer, confession—described as a baptism of tears—and acts of mercy.
Patriarch Daniel concluded by wishing students, parents, teachers and professors God’s help and the assurance that they are loved by Christ, the Church, their families and society.