Greek Archdiocese Assessing Damages Following Hurricane Sandy, Archbishop Affirms Prayers And Assistance

Source: Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America

NEW YORK – In the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of America has expressed the concern, prayers and care of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America for the life, safety and well being of the millions of people in the affected areas of the northeastern United States.

The Archbishop, through his chancellor, has been in contact with clergy of the Direct Archdiocesan District to assess and determine the extent of damages on our faithful and parishes in the areas ravaged by the storm. He also spoke yesterday, October 31, with New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, and thanked him for all that he is doing for New York City during this unprecedented crisis. He pledged the support and assistance of the Archdiocese in the efforts of recovery and reconstruction, an offering for which the Mayor thanked him. In addition, the Archbishop spoke with Metropolitan Evangelos of New Jersey, who informed him about the damages to the churches and communities of the Metropolis of New Jersey.

In the days to come, Archbishop Demetrios will be working with key people in the Archdiocese and with the Philoptochos Society to offer specific assistance to those impacted by the hurricane.

In response to this historic natural disaster for this area of the United States, His Eminence asks the faithful throughout the nation to offer prayers of remembrance for those who lost their lives and prayers of consolation for the thousands who have suffered the loss of property and face weeks and months of recovery. He also asks for prayers for the safety of the many rescue personnel and others who are working to save lives and bring solace to those who have been afflicted by this storm. He stated, “Through these sacrificial acts and through the outpouring of our love and generosity may those in need know the presence of the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort (II Corinthians 1:4), the God who will give them strength, healing, and peace.”