On Friday, October 24, 2025, the guest of the Morning Programme of Hram Television was catechist Branislav Ilić, editor of the Kinonia portal of the Missionary Department of the Archdiocese of Belgrade–Karlovci. The theme of the interview, conducted by journalist Jana Okilj, was the significance of the Holy Mysteries and the life of grace in the Church.
In the introductory part, catechist Branislav explained the concept of the Holy Mysteries, stating that they are sacred acts in which the invisible grace of the Holy Spirit is poured out in a visible manner. He reminded the audience that the Holy Mysteries are manifestations of the one and unique Holy Mystery—the Church—within which God grants divine life to man and delivers him from sin, death, and the devil. He further noted that Baptism, Chrismation, and Priesthood are unrepeatable, while the others can be repeated, emphasizing that the ultimate aim of all Holy Mysteries is the realization of communion with Christ, for “through the Holy Mysteries, as through a window, the Sun of Righteousness enters this dark world.”
When asked about the specific number of Holy Mysteries, the guest of Jana Okilj explained that the number seven is most often mentioned, yet this number bears a purely symbolic meaning, representing fullness and perfection. According to catechist Branislav, even the blessing of water, the consecration of a church, and monastic tonsure can all be understood as Holy Mysteries. In that sense, the attempt to limit the Mysteries to a fixed number carries the danger of forgetting their common foundation—namely, the Holy Eucharist, in which they all find their meaning.
Within the conversation on the Holy Mysteries, the editor of Kinonia briefly explained that each of the Mysteries finds its foundation in Christ, as attested by numerous scriptural witnesses. The understanding of the Holy Mysteries as the work of Christ is present not only in liturgical texts but also among the Fathers of the Church. Blessed Augustine says: “Baptism does not depend on the power of the one who performs it, nor of the one who receives it, but on the power of its own holiness and truth, thanks to Him who instituted it.” Saint John Chrysostom writes: “It is the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit who accomplish all things. The priest merely lends his tongue and hand. During Holy Communion, it is the hand of Christ Himself that is extended to you.” The same Holy Father continues: “The gifts of God do not depend on any virtue of the priest; they are entirely the work of grace. The task of the priest is simply to open his mouth, and what he utters is fulfilled by God. The Eucharistic gifts remain the same, whoever offers them—be it Paul or Peter,” concluded catechist Branislav Ilić.
Speaking about the sacramental life of contemporary Christians, catechist Branislav emphasized that the life of the Mysteries represents a spiritual ladder by which we ascend. He particularly pointed out that although the speed and pressures of worldly life harshly restrain us from the path of the Mysteries and virtues, if we are firmly rooted in the sacramental life—through love and the help of God—we shall become victors over all earthly difficulties.
In the conclusion of the programme, catechist Branislav Ilić greeted the viewers, encouraging them to read the works of Saint Bishop Nikolaj and Venerable Justin of Ćelije, for they have left us an invaluable spiritual treasure. Particularly interesting was his testimony about the deep reverence that Orthodox Greeks have for these recently glorified saints, who were mysterious witnesses and heralds of God’s love.