OCA Chancery
Syosset, New York
SYOSSET, NY [OCA Communications] — His Beatitude, Metropolitan Herman, Primate of the Orthodox Church in America, sent a letter of concern to Florida Governor Jeb Bush on behalf of the members of the Holy Synod of Bishops, clergy and faithful of the Church in the wake of Hurricane Frances.
“I wish to extend to you the heartfelt concern, prayers and support of all the hierarchs, clergy, and faithful of the Orthodox Church in America as you and the people of Florida continue to cope with the aftermath of hurricane Frances,” Metropolitan Herman’s letter begins. “The destruction wrought by hurricane Frances is of historic proportions. With damages calculated at well over 2 billion dollars, and over 2.5 million people displaced, the recovery efforts will no doubt make very great demands upon you and the people of Florida for many months to come.
“During this crisis you have shown exemplary leadership and the speed of the Florida emergency response system has earned the admiration of all,” the letter concludes. “The Orthodox Church in America has many parishes in Florida, and our priests and faithful are deeply grateful for your excellent work. May God grant you much strength and courage as you continue to fulfill your duties, and please be assured of my continued prayers and support.”
Donations to the OCA “Florida Hurricane Fund” may be sent to the Orthodox Church in America, PO Box 675, Syosset, NY 11791 or may be made on-line on the OCA web site at Florida Hurricane Fund.