His Holiness Pope Shenouda III speaks about the meaning of holiness in the believer’s life, clarifying that God wants all His children to be saints, as written in the Bible: “God chose you from the beginning for salvation through sanctification of the Spirit.” Holiness is not an exceptional rank but a universal Christian calling.

✝️ Holiness as a Divine Gift

The Pope explains that holiness is first granted in the Sacrament of Baptism and Chrismation, where the person is washed from original sin and the Holy Spirit dwells in him to work continual sanctification. This grace is free, because man cannot redeem himself or pay the price for his sins.

💧 Repentance and Daily Sanctification

After baptism, man sins again and needs repentance daily to sanctify his heart, mind, and conduct. Repentance renews his communion with the Blood of Christ and restores purity lost by sin.

⛪ The Holy Church and the Community of Saints

The Church is a holy community, and every believer is called to be a pure member within it. Therefore, the Eucharist is called “the Liturgy of the Saints,” and only those prepared by repentance and purity may partake. Holiness is thus the condition for church life and union with Christ.

🔥 Holiness as a Cooperation Between God and Man

The Holy Spirit works within man to sanctify him, but does not force him. Man cooperates freely, striving against sin and working together with the Spirit. Holiness, therefore, is a partnership between the human will and the divine will.

❤️ Holiness as Love and Union with God

Holiness is not merely rituals or acts, but true love for God — a deep union with Him in thought, feeling, and will. The holy person not only avoids sin but loves goodness and truth, living in harmony with God’s will.

👨‍👩‍👧 Holiness in All States of Life

Holiness is not limited to monks; everyone can live it — in home, work, or family — for marriage is holy, parenthood is holy, and every household can be a “holy family” when lived in love and purity.

🌅 The Practical Path of Holiness

Holiness is not about reaching the peak, but walking on the path toward perfection. What matters is that God finds you walking in His way. Whoever lives in holiness becomes light to the world and salt of the earth, leading others to God through a pure life, and tasting the joy of the Lord’s goodness: “Taste and see that the Lord is good.”

“For better translation support, please contact the center.”