Assembly of Bishops’ Calls All to Prayer for Earthquake Victims in Türkiye and Syria
Wednesday, February 08, 2023
The Executive Committee of the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States of America laments the recent earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria and mourns the loss of nearly 12,000 innocent lives to date. While natural disasters may often challenge our faith, it is imperative – now more than ever, during these critical days – for us all to pray fervently:
- for the healing of the countless injured and displaced,
- for peace of individuals, families and communities that are grieving,
- and for strength of the first responders from all over the world.
The Ecumenical Patriarchate and the Patriarchate of Antioch also need our sincere supplications as they work hard to support their flocks in these devastating circumstances.
Beyond our vital prayers, in an effort to contribute what we can from afar, the Assembly of Bishops’ humanitarian relief agency, International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) has launched a fundraising campaign in order to implement both emergency and long-term relief programs. IOCC’s efforts will directly assist and support the faithful of the region and their neighbors. Please consider supporting the campaign.
We implore the Lord “to give rest to His departed servants in a place of light, in a place of green pasture, in a place of refreshment, from where pain, sorrow, and sighing have fled away.” Furthermore, we ask that God may “bring peace from above” to those enduring the loss of their loved ones.