My firm belief, which I have repeated often in recent decades, is that the "one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church" to which we belong does not live exclusively for itself. Whatever it is, whatever it possesses, whatever it offers, is intended for the whole of humanity, for the upliftment and renewal of the world. Therefore, it must be vigilant, watchful, and attentive to the course and evolution of the world, studying the signs of the times. So that it can bear witness to the Gospel and share with all people the gifts of God: truth, love, peace, justice, reconciliation, the experience of the Cross and the Resurrection, with the expectation of eternity.

In this perspective, the Orthodox conscience cannot remain indifferent to the social events and spiritual fermentations that affect humanity. Those who hold responsible positions in the Church, as well as conscious members in general, are called to be watchful. The exhortation of Christ to "watch" (Matthew 26:38-41; Mark 13:35-37) is highly relevant. They must participate in the exploration of contemporary conditions and, with critical, comforting, and guiding words, contribute to the proper handling of emerging problems. Vigilance is the duty of the Orthodox.

The texts included in this collection seek to express an Orthodox perspective on critical contemporary issues. These are proposals and speeches at Assemblies, Orthodox, inter-Christian, and interreligious conferences held in various cities (Belgrade, Bucharest, Porto Alegre in Brazil, Athens, Lyon, Kolymbari in Crete, Tirana). The topics addressed are of general interest, such as: Orthodoxy in the third millennium; Relations of Orthodoxy with the positive sciences; Orthodox Unity and Mission; Orthodox contribution to global issues; Contribution of Christianity to European civilization; Balkan coexistence; Search for fundamental values of life; Transformation of the world; Multireligious Europe and Orthodoxy; Dare to hope; Economic crisis; Persecutions and martyrdom of Christians; World peace. Texts are also published about the Holy and Great Council of the Orthodox Churches, and as an Epilogue, its official Message - a timely symbol of the vigilance of the Orthodox.