“By Giving, You Shall Receive!”: New Orthodox Charity Initiative in Sedegliano
On 30 November 2024, the feast day of St Andrew the First-Called Apostle, with the Hierarchical and paternal blessing of His Eminence Metropolitan Polycarpos of Italy, the Orthodox Parish of Saints Menas the Great Martyr and Ephraim the New Martyr – the Wonderworkers in Sedegliano joyfully launched the first edition of the social and philanthropic initiative “By Giving, You Shall Receive,” an action aiming to bring light, hope, and comfort to those in need.
This initiative, coordinated under the diligent care of Presbytera Luiza Filipescu, with the support of Mrs Daniela Bogdan (secretary of the parish council), the ladies of the parish council, and: Protopresbyter Fr Petru Filipescu – parish rector, Protopresbyter Fr Dionisie Vidigh – assistant priest, as well as Mr Florin Traciuc (warden) and Mr Danuț Bogdan (parish secretary), was actively supported by parishioners, the children of the parish, and benefactors Mr Gabriele Risieri and Mrs Cristina Cojocaru.
Under the banner of “By Giving, You Shall Receive,” children, together with their parents, crafted ornaments for the Christmas tree. The next session is planned to feature a baking workshop led by Mrs Marilena Traciuc, known for her culinary talents. Additionally, children have begun rehearsing carols in Greek, Romanian, Italian, Latin, and English.
The initiative has a profound purpose: organising carol concerts during the festive season of the Nativity of Christ and offering gifts to those in need. Parishioners plan to visit nursing homes, hospitals, and orphanages, spreading joy and hope through their carols and gifts.
Charitable activities, as acts of selfless love, will continue with visits to various holy churches and social institutions, including:
• The Cathedral of Saint George in Venice – the seat of the Metropolis of Italy;
• The Greek Orthodox Parish of Saint Nicholas in Trieste;
• The Episcopal Monastery of Saint Barbara in Montaner di Treviso;
• The Catholic Parish of Saint Lawrence in Sedegliano, a symbol of fraternal cooperation between denominations.
Words from Rector Protopresbyter Fr Petru Filipescu
“‘By Giving, You Shall Receive’ is more than a call to solidarity; it is a way to draw closer to God and our neighbours. Charity helps us see the face of Christ in those who suffer and, through our offering, transform ourselves into beacons of divine light.
The Saviour’s words – ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive’ (Acts 20:35) – teach us that every gift given with love brings peace, grace, and joy to our souls. Giving is not only about offering material goods but, above all, about giving time, prayer, love, and hope.”
His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew: “Charity is God’s Work in the World”
Father Petru highlighted the words of His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew:
“Charity is the deepest expression of Christian love. To give to those in need is to become co-workers in God’s work, for whatever we offer to our neighbour is received by Christ Himself. Charity is not merely a good deed but an invitation to live in the light of divine commandments and to be perfected as children of God.”
A Call to Love and Solidarity
This initiative stands as a tangible example that Christian charity knows no boundaries. Through small yet love-filled acts, the Orthodox Parish of Sedegliano seeks to spread joy, light, and hope to those most in need. “Every gift given with a pure heart becomes a seed of eternity. We invite everyone to join us in this effort to bring light and joy to the most vulnerable among us,” concluded Rector Protopresbyter Father Petru Filipescu.
Source: Metropolis of Italy
