Elder Ephraim of Arizona on the Foundations and Indestructibility of the Orthodox Faith

Elder Ephraim of Philotheou (of Arizona) emphasized the importance of preserving the purity of Church doctrine, urging believers never, under any circumstances, to compromise on teachings that contradict the dogmas of Orthodoxy. The Elder reminded us that the Church of Christ has passed through centuries of great trials and the labors of the holy fathers, who safeguarded its spiritual heights.

, in his sermons, the elder particularly emphasized that “The Orthodox Church is sealed,” and neither anything may be taken away from it nor added to it—it is founded not only on the Holy Gospel but also on Sacred Tradition, the decisions of the Ecumenical Councils, and the authority of the great hierarchs. Ephrem of Philotheou emphasized that the Church’s authenticity is confirmed by its grace-filled power, manifested even in the sacrament of the blessing of water.

The elder called on the faithful to “pray fervently for those who stand at the head of Orthodoxy,” so that they might remain faithful to the Church’s doctrine and stand firm in defending Orthodox values, preventing any deviation from the truth.