Divisions among us must cease. Before God and before people, the Church must be a bridge among people, not a wall that divides them. We look around ourselves and see only ever deeper wounds and fractures — in the nation, in the Church, in families. Our unity and peace have been seriously disrupted, and if we do not come to our senses and return to God’s word, I fear it will be even worse.

The Lord has clearly taught us: to love our neighbor as ourselves. But He did not stop there — He raised the measure of love and said: “Love your enemies as well.” For if we only love those who love us, how do we differ from the godless?

The Montenegrin Orthodox Church today is under attack from various structures and interests, precisely because it does not deviate from its apostolic mission among Montenegrins. Many are displeased with our unity, because they know that our strength and victory lie within it.

Our mission must be to bear witness to Christ’s truth and love, without hatred, without revenge, but with steadfastness and faith.

This is the final moment to repent, to overcome our divisions, quarrels and mutual harsh words, for if we do not do this, our name will be erased under the heavenly vault, and deleted from the book of eternal life.

Therefore, I call upon all people of good will to gather around Christ, to renew love for one another, so that Montenegro may breathe again as one being — with a heart that believes, forgives and hopes.

Only united in this way shall we endure.

† Metropolitan Mihailo