Ecclesiastical Questions, Part 1

1. On the Existence and Work of Satan

His Holiness explained that Satan is not omnipresent, but has many fallen angels (demons) who serve him. As described in Revelation, Michael and his angels fought against the dragon and his angels. These evil spirits are spread throughout the world, but it is incorrect to say that “Satan himself” is everywhere.

He also clarified that people often use the term “devil” figuratively—for example, calling a mischievous or clever person “a little devil.” But this should not be a title of pride, for the devil represents rebellion, not wisdom.

2. On Hell and the Righteous

His Holiness explained that there is a great chasm between the righteous and the wicked, as Abraham said in Luke 16. The righteous were not in hell but in a separate place of rest, according to Ephesians 4 which speaks of “the lower parts of the earth.”

3. On Theological Precision

He stressed that theological writing requires great precision, and that not every lecture can be published as a book. Each word must be weighed carefully to ensure doctrinal accuracy.

4. On Learning and Memory

He encouraged students to rely on their God-given memory rather than recorders, reminding them that the human mind is far greater than any device, and that learning comes through understanding and review, not mechanical recording.

5. On Ritual and Spiritual Questions

• About deacons wearing shoes in church: it depends on the material—cloth shoes are acceptable.

• On fasting: the time to break the fast (third hour or sunset) depends on one’s spiritual father.

• On communion: those possessed or unworthy should not partake of the sacrament, for healing belongs to the sacrament of anointing of the sick.

6. On Angels

Angels are spiritual beings without physical size, and may appear as children or adults, but this appearance is symbolic and not their true nature.

7. On the Sacrament of Chrism (Myron)

He rejected the claim that demons can enter through a body part not anointed with Myron, saying this is theologically incorrect. The Holy Spirit is received through the sacrament itself, not through the number of anointings.

8. On the Church and Teaching

The Coptic Orthodox Church was founded by St. Mark the Apostle, not by St. Athanasius. His Holiness rejoiced at the growth of churches in Europe, especially in the UK, from one to many, expressing joy in consecrating new churches and establishing permanent buildings for ministry.

9. On Positive Action Instead of Sadness

He advised a young man jealous of others’ holiness that God accepts everyone, and that growth comes through active effort, not through tears or self-pity.

10. On the Father and the Son

The Father is the source, not the origin in time—as fire produces light and heat simultaneously. Thus, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are co-eternal, equal in essence and glory.

Conclusion

His Holiness concluded with a pastoral reminder that Orthodox faith is built on understanding, accuracy, and living practice, and that the Church’s expansion is the fruit of faithful service and divine blessing.

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