Reverend Fathers, Beloved faithful,
We all know the disaster produced by the hurricane Harvey in the states of Texas and Western Louisiana. The forces of nature were again unleashed, creating many victims and material damages. By God’s mercy, our parishes in Texas have been spared. The Protection of the Mother of God in Houston, the Nativity of the Mother of God in Austin, and St. John Cassian in San Antonio communities have been protected. Thanks be to God!
But we cannot ignore the tragedy of many people and communities in the area. We cannot remain careless in front of this new trial that came upon our fellow human beings. We must not forget our Savior commandment to see in each fellow human person Him who suffered for all of us. Thus, we should help them according to our means.
Please pray that God gives strength to those affected by this natural disaster. Also, for the eternal rest of those who lost their lives and that comfort and strength be granted by God to their families and friends.
Please organize a special collection for the victims of hurricane Harvey this coming Sunday, September the 3rd, 2017 and send it immediately to the Eparchial Center in Chicago. The IOCC, the International Orthodox Christian Charities, which is an agency under the auspices of the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States of America, is in place working with the local authorities to help the victims of the storm. Frontliners, highly trained clergy and laity, have deployed and are providing emotional and spiritual care to people affected by the storm. After the waters recede, IOCC’s work to clean and rebuild homes will continue into the weeks and months following the storm’s devastation. We will send the collection of the Archdiocese to the IOCC in order to help their mission.
We pray our God to protect us from every evil, to bless our families and our parishes!
† Metropolitan Nicolae
