Metropolitan Arsenios of Austria and Exarch of Hungary presided over the Divine Liturgy at the Parish of Saints Cosmas and Damian in Graz on Sunday, November 1, 2026, marking the feast of the Holy Unmercenary Physicians.

Concelebrating were Bishop Maximos of Aristi, Protopresbyter Dimitrios Makris, parish priest of Saints Cosmas and Damian, and Protopresbyter Anatolios Slynko, parish priest of the Ukrainian-speaking Orthodox Parish of Saint Andrew the First-Called in Graz.

In his homily, Metropolitan Arsenios reflected on the Gospel parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus, contrasting the rich man’s indifference to suffering with the compassion and selfless service of Saints Cosmas and Damian.

He explained that the rich man’s failure was not simply his wealth but his inability to recognize the suffering of Lazarus, who lay outside his gate.

The Metropolitan warned that evil can take the form of an apparently peaceful daily life in which the suffering of others no longer concerns us.

He emphasized that every person has value before God, noting that Christ gives the poor man a name, Lazarus, while the rich man remains anonymous.

Referring to Saints Cosmas and Damian, Metropolitan Arsenios highlighted their dedication to healing the sick without accepting payment, describing their example as a powerful expression of Christian love and generosity.

He stressed that the saints understood their medical knowledge as a gift entrusted to them for the service of others.

Through their ministry, he noted, medical science became an act of service, reflecting God’s love for humanity.

Concluding his homily, Metropolitan Arsenios called on the faithful to recognize those suffering around them and overcome indifference.

He urged believers to open their hearts to others while there is still time, transforming material abundance into acts of love, compassion, and generosity.

Following the Divine Liturgy, the service of the Blessing of the Five Loaves (Artoklasia) was celebrated. A festive meal was subsequently held at a nearby restaurant for members of the community.