ST. GREGORIOS PARUMALA (INDIA)

ST. GREGORIOS PARUMALA (INDIA)
FESTIVAL DAY - NOVEMBER 2


" Avoid arrogance, quarrel and pride while dealing in Church matters; instead, let your humility shine before others. Those who place their trust in God, and satisfy the people are blessed "

" As far as possible never do evil to anyone: or it will ruin you, your children and your house. Hold on steadfastly to prayer, fasting and works of charity. Do them with faith and devotion "

" You must regularly read the Holy Bible. You must obey your spiritual fathers and increase their good name and honor before God and men by your exemplary life "

" Those who disobey their parents and join their enemies are liable to be cursed by them. They will not inherit the legacy of their parents and will be disqualified from this world as well as the other "

" If there is quarrel in family, keep away from it. A quarrelsome house is the haven of the devil; and God is nowhere near it "

" Be rich in love of man and love of God. Brothers should never cheat each other. When you move away from unity you are sure to move away from God "

" It is not spiritual wisdom to try to conquer the enemy with evil than with virtue. If you depend on the God of Truth and go out with a truthful heart, God will accomplish things for you "

" Loss and difficulties come when God moves away. On such occasions, never look for one reason or other. Instead, know that God has kept away because of your sins: then cling to God, he will show mercy upon you "

" Prayer is the inspiration of childhood, the refuge of youth and peace during old age "

" Forgiveness is strength. It gives a person a good name. It is the distinguishing feature of righteous people "

" When we pray with a heart full of devotion, God accepts it and we receive blessings in return "

" Whatever is due to the Church must be given forthwith. If your mind is pure in that matter, your house will also be pure. If in such things you think of any gain or revenue, then you will lose that ten-fold "

" He who prays to God everyday would never be without truth, morality, faith and devotion, and would never turn against his master or society "

" Remember God in everything. Let no one grieve because of you. Never let go an opportunity to do something good. Only those things will remain with you till the end "

" If man does not raise his hands in prayer for himself and for the sake of his people, even after knowing God, how can we say man is better than animals who are not wise and cannot think about their future"

Icon of St Gregorios posted with these sayings at http://maruroopa.blogspot.com/2009/11/quotes-from-st.html

John Brian
" Loss and difficulties come when God moves away. On such occasions, never look for one reason or other. Instead, know that God has kept away because of your sins: then cling to God, he will show mercy upon you "

perhaps the quote is not a good translation into English. What the St Gregorios is reminding us is that our sins keep us separated from God - notice he said that we need to cling to God. Orthodoxy always emphasizes our free will choices. God is always near - we move from Him.... it is sad that even with His ever-present availability we still seprate ourselves from Him.... that is why we say, "Lord, have mercy"