Baltimore, Maryland, October 1, 2024
Photo: iocc.org
As Hurricane Helene continues to wreak havoc, Orthodox Christians are called upon to prayer and financially support the victims.
Hurricane Helene has struck the southeastern United States, causing widespread devastation, including more than 100 dead, and affecting millions of residents. The storm’s impact has forced numerous individuals and families to abandon their homes and seek refuge elsewhere. In the wake of this natural disaster, a significant number of people are now struggling to access basic necessities such as food and other essential supplies. The hurricane’s landfall has resulted in a rapidly evolving humanitarian situation, with local authorities and relief organizations working to address the immediate needs of those affected by this powerful weather event.
The Orthodox Church in America posted a brief message on Sunday, saying: “Parishes and faithful of the Orthodox Church in America are urged to offer prayers for all those impacted by the destruction left by Hurricane Helene late last week.”
Also on Sunday, during the Divine Liturgy for the start of the current session of the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States of America, Archbishop Elpidophoros of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese offered a prayer that “those whose lives have been lost will receive mercy before the Throne of God; that those who are bereaved of their loved ones may receive comfort in their hour of grieving; and that those whose lives have been upended … may experience the help and succor of neighbors, both known and unknown.”
Both the OCA and GOARCH reports also point to the fundraising campaign by International Orthodox Christian Charities, whose staff has mobilized and are “currently positioning themselves to respond to areas of greatest need.”
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