Feast of Nayrouz (Coptic New Year)

Main message

The lecture emphasizes that the Holy Spirit is the “meek, gentle” one and that meekness and quietness are effects of the Spirit in souls. His Holiness Pope Shenouda III calls us to ask for this Spirit and to be characterized by its fruits: love, peace, assurance, and patience.

Biblical and historical examples

The speaker cites examples from the Holy Bible: Christ Himself was meek and humble of heart, Elijah heard God’s voice in the quiet, the Spirit is sometimes described as a dove to indicate simplicity and calm. He also mentions the transformation of John the son of thunder into John the beloved as a fruit of companionship with Christ and the Spirit.

Fruits of the Spirit and believer’s virtues

Meekness yields the ability to resolve disputes with wisdom, slowness of anger, quiet prayer, and dealing wisely with problems. Spiritual children are described by inner calm that reflects outwardly in their speech and actions.

Spiritual life and asceticism

Monks and spiritual fathers acquired calm from their seclusion and bodily quiet, and this reflected on their souls, so they became beacons of peace from which souls draw calm. Quiet deep prayer (like Hannah mother of Samuel) is stronger and more effective than noise.

Miracles and divine work

The Holy Spirit performs His miracles in quiet and silence: in baptism, in changing the bread and wine, and in the union of spouses. The spiritual transformation happens in silence and with an inner power that has no clamor.

Practical application for the believer

The call is clear: be meek and quiet, fill your hearts with peace and love, resolve every problem in calm, and stay away from external and internal noise. Quiet is not passivity but effective steadfastness and striving spirituality.

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