NEW YORK – In response to the unprecedented catastrophic Hurricane Harvey, His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios, speaking on behalf of the Holy Eparchial Synod and the entire Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America said:

“In the wake of Hurricane Harvey that hit Texas and continues to ravage through neighbouring states causing unprecedented destruction, trauma and loss of life, we share in the pain of our brothers and sisters and express our solidarity, care and concern. As Orthodox Christians we are called to prayer and fervently pray that God gives strength to those so adversely affected by this natural disaster and delivers them safe through this continuing calamity. We are also praying for the eternal rest of those who lost their lives and for comfort and strength to be granted by the merciful God to their families and friends. Our prayers however, should be accompanied by tangible assistance to those who are now in dire need. We ask all faithful Orthodox Christians to contribute their donations directly to 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.”

To make your donations go to the IOCC’s special page for Hurricane Harvey

Additionally, the Ecumenical Patriarchate released yesterday a statement from His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew on Hurricane Harvey, which can be read here.