"Famine means being deprived of and desiring necessary food. But there is something worse and more wretched than this famine: when someone is deprived of the necessary means of salvation and does not perceive his misfortune, having no desire to be saved. ... Some people, because their minds have gone so long without nourishment, lose their desire to eat and so do not notice the harm they are suffering."

Saint Gregory of Palamas

Today, in distant America, our beloved Iakovos (Jim), faithful sexton of the Parish of St. Nectarios in Charlotte NC, was given his final farewell. From here in Cameroon, we have offered prayers and memorial services for the repose and salvation of his soul.

Jim was not only a dear friend, but a true brother in Christ, with whom I was granted to share a deep and personal bond. He offered me one of the warmest and most genuine expressions of Christian hospitality I have ever known—opening his home, his heart, and his very life. He shared with me his love and care for his beloved godsons, and I could only respond to him and them with love.

For many, Jim was a guide and a mentor—especially for young men seeking the Truth and a new path in life. He was a place of refuge, a steady and peaceful presence, a shelter where one could find comfort. For me as well. In his quiet company, I found rest and even simple joy after the many struggles of the mission field. I will always remember those moments in his living room, each in our armchair, where we could take a nap in complete trust, as brothers.

Jim was the servant every clergyman prays for: devoted, faithful, and full of love for the Church and her sacred services, in which he found light and life. A reborn Orthodox Christian, whose memory I now keep before me like a living icon, as I pray for his journey into the heavenly Kingdom.

Jim, you so deeply desired to serve at the Table of the Lord. Now the Master of Life and Death Himself has called you to serve at His Heavenly Table, unto the ages of ages. From there, remember us and bless us.

May his memory be eternal! ☦️🕯

Today, on the great feast of the Entrance the Lord into Jerusalem — Palm Sunday, our beloved brother in Christ and concelebrant, the Reverend Fr. Jean Bahaboudi, celebrated the Divine Liturgy in the Parish of St. Christophoros, in the remote village of Bourou, in the northern desert of Cameroon.

Here, even palms are rare. And yet, the children have learned to prepare small crosses from the green leaves they find, according to our Orthodox tradition.

May this image of newly born green palm leaves in the midst of the desert, in a remote village of Africa, become a symbol of hope and peace in these times of global struggle, fear, and war.

Hosanna in the Highest! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord! ☦️🌿