To the clergy, monastics, and faithful of the Orthodox Church in America,
As Hurricane Ian approaches Florida and as we see the extensive damage to the Atlantic Provinces from Hurricane Fiona, I am calling on all of the faithful of the Orthodox Church in America to intensify their prayer for the affected and suffering of both these regions.
Hurricane Ian is predicted to make landfall shortly. Its strength is considered extremely dangerous and millions of people are under mandatory evacuation orders. Likewise, a few days ago, Hurricane Fiona devastated Atlantic Canada, killed three people, swept entire homes out to sea, and leaves thousands without power.
I ask that you intensify your prayers for everyone in the midst of these natural disasters. In particular, for those facing Hurricane Ian, please pray for the safety of the people and parishes of the Orthodox Church in America in addition to all Floridians. Likewise, pray for those suffering and struggling to rebuild in the aftermath of Hurricane Fiona. For those who have already lost their lives in this disaster we ask that the Lord grant them a place of rest “where there is neither sickness, nor sorrow, nor sighing, but life everlasting”.
May Christ our true God, who “rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, ‘Peace! Be still!’” (Mk. 4:39), protect all facing the coming storm and bring comfort and hope to those now suffering.
I remain sincerely yours in Christ,
+Tikhon
Archbishop of Washington
Metropolitan of All America and Canada
