Bishop Hovakim Preaches: “Looking to the Cross, We Find Life”

On Sunday, 2 August, Bishop Hovakim Manukyan preached at the Divine Liturgy at St Sarkis Armenian Church on the Gospel reading from John 3:14–16, reflecting on Christ’s words:

“Just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up.”

Drawing on the Old Testament account of the bronze serpent (Numbers 21:4–9), Bishop Hovakim explained that it foreshadowed the saving work of Christ on the Cross. Just as the Israelites were healed when they looked in faith to the bronze serpent, Christians today find forgiveness, healing, and eternal life by looking to the Crucified and Risen Lord.

The Bishop reflected on the “wilderness” of the modern world, marked by loneliness, broken families, war, addiction, anxiety, and spiritual emptiness. While acknowledging the remarkable achievements of science and technology, he noted that humanity continues to hunger for what only Christ can offer: hope, peace, forgiveness, and the fullness of life.

Quoting the words of John 3:16, Bishop Hovakim reminded the congregation that the Cross is not merely a symbol of suffering but the supreme revelation of God’s love for the world. He encouraged the faithful to keep their eyes fixed on Christ in every circumstance, trusting that the Cross remains the source of strength, healing, and victory.

Concluding his homily, Bishop Hovakim invited the congregation to carry one question into the coming week: “Where is my gaze directed?” He urged everyone that whenever they encounter fear, suffering, temptation, or uncertainty, they should lift their eyes to Christ, for in Him they will find hope, mercy, and eternal life.

The sermon concluded with the apostolic blessing, praying that the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God the Father, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit would remain with all the faithful.