MINSK, 14 August (BelTA) - Metropolitan of Minsk and Zaslavl Pavel, Patriarchal Exarch of All Belarus, called on Belarusians to show restraint and wisdom, BelTA has learned.
“Let's do everything possible for peace to prevail on our blessed Belarusian land. I call on everyone to demonstrate restraint and wisdom," Metropolitan Pavel said. “I am addressing our clergy today, because I hear that some of them, using internet resources, social networks, are trying to offer their personal opinion on what is happening. Everyone has an opinion. The Lord calls on us not to interfere in politics. Let's leave politics to politicians. We, the clergy, should heal people's hearts,” he said.
The Patriarchal Exarch of All Belarus also stressed that religious processions should not be used for political purposes. “Today, troublemakers are trying to use our church traditions, urging people to go out for religious processions. If they are appropriate, if they are traditional, then they serve the good purpose. But when they try to use us for some political purposes, these processions will not bring anything good. Therefore, I encourage everyone who wants to pray to come to churches and pray. I believe and I hope that the blessed peace will prevail on our land,” he said.
On 14 August Metropolitan Pavel took part in a ceremony to break ground for the church in honor of Saint Serafim of Sarov in Minsk.
