Archbishop of America: The Theotokos is the model for every one of us | Orthodox Times (en)

Archbishop Elpidophoros of America reflected on the spiritual meaning of the Dormition of the Theotokos, emphasising that the feast is not simply a transition from fasting to celebration, but a reminder of humanity’s calling to eternal life.

“Tomorrow we transit from the Fast to the Feast of the Dormition, our solemn observance of her passage from death to eternal life,” the Archbishop stated in a message published on social media.

He noted that the conclusion of the fast is “more than an occasion for feasting,” explaining that the Church’s embrace of the Virgin Mary’s passage into the eternal Kingdom of God also represents an acknowledgement of humanity’s own destiny.

“She traverses perfectly the Way, the Truth, and the Life, pointing us in the direction of eternity,” Archbishop Elpidophoros said.

Presenting the Theotokos as a model for every Christian, the Archbishop recalled that she bore the incarnate Lord in her womb. In the same way, he said, Christians are called to bring Christ into the world through their thoughts, intentions and actions.

Concluding, Archbishop Elpidophoros expressed the hope that the celebration of the Dormition would renew the spiritual journey of the faithful towards heaven, “with the Panagia as our guide, our protector, and our most loving Mother.”