The Church becomes truly alive when believers show mercy and pray not only for themselves but also for others, especially the sick and those in need, Romanian Patriarch Daniel said in a sermon on Sunday, March 8.

The head of the Romanian Orthodox Church delivered his message after the Divine Liturgy celebrated in the historic house chapel of the Patriarchal Residence in Bucharest, according to the Church’s news service.

Reflecting on the Gospel account of the healing of the paralytic in Capernaum, Patriarch Daniel said the people who carried the sick man to Christ and lowered him through the roof of a house illustrate the true mission of the Church.

“The living Church is a communion of merciful love,” the patriarch said. He explained that the unnamed individuals in the Gospel symbolize the Church itself — a community that helps bring a person closer to God when he is no longer able to do so on his own.

Patriarch Daniel also emphasized that the prayer of the Church extends far beyond the walls of the church building.

“The Church prays not only for those present at the service, but also for the sick, the poor, prisoners, travelers — for all who need God’s help,” he said.

According to the patriarch, prayer for one’s neighbor becomes especially important during moments of spiritual weakness. When a person’s faith weakens and the soul becomes “paralyzed by sin,” the support and prayers of others can restore hope and strength.

Speaking about suffering and illness, Patriarch Daniel noted that such trials can sometimes become an opportunity for spiritual renewal. At the same time, he emphasized that Christ heals people with compassion and without condemnation, preserving their dignity before others.

“This Sunday’s Gospel calls us, in addition to prayer, fasting, repentance, and confession, to perform good deeds and to help the sick and all those who need our assistance,” Patriarch Daniel concluded.