ARCHPASTORAL MESSAGE OF HIS EMINENCE, ARCHBISHOP DMITRI FOR THE 2008 CHARITY APPEAL

To the Venerable Hierarchs, Reverend Clergy, Monastics and Faithful
of the Orthodox Church in America

Dearly beloved in the Lord:

“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” [Matthew 6:21].
We are about to enter the Nativity Fast, that time of preparation for the joyous celebration of the Incarnation of Our Lord, God, and Saviour Jesus Christ.

As with all fasting seasons, we are called upon to accompany our fasting and prayer with almsgiving, with the active desire to share a portion of the blessings which we have received with others, especially the “least of the brethren.”

We are all too well aware of the fact that we are living in difficult economic times. Many are struggling to “make ends meet.” The ever-increasing cost of living, coupled with a general downturn in the economy and employment opportunities, has made life difficult for countless individuals and families. Natural disasters, ongoing world conflicts, and other unforeseen occurrences have left far too many in a state of helplessness and hopelessness.

It is precisely in the Incarnation of Our Lord that hope springs forth—not only hope for the delights of “the world to come,” but hope for the strength to tackle the difficulties and challenges faced in the life of this world. Refusing to abandon us after our forefathers abandoned Him, God sent His only-begotten Son into the world as the Helper and Hope of mankind. In recognition of the hope He offered, and continually offers, us, He challenges us as the People of God to reveal “the hope that is within us” by sharing a portion of our blessings with those in need.

It is with these thoughts in mind that I wholeheartedly encourage you, dear faithful, to respond generously to the Orthodox Church in Americaʼs 2008 Charity Appeal. My encouragement is accompanied by the guarantee that the gifts you offer will be distributed fully in accordance with the clear “Guidelines for Charity Appeal Disbursements” established by the Metropolitan Council of the Orthodox Church in America and blessed by the Holy Synod of Bishops.

Join me during this blessed season of fasting and prayer in offering a ray of hope to those in need, to those who rely on the hope that has been granted to us so richly by Our Lord and Saviour, and to those who may have no other recourse in easing lifeʼs burdens. May our Saviour, Who was born in poverty in order to share the immense riches of His Kingdom, bless you in measure with the blessings you share with those in need!

With love in Christ,

+DMITRI
Archbishop of Dallas and the South
Locum Tenens of the Metropolitan See