Metropolitan Herman sends message of congratulations to President Bush
His Beatitude, Metropolitan Herman, Primate of the Orthodox Church in America, sent a message of congratulations with an assurance of prayers on behalf of the Church’s hierarchs, clergy, and laity to US President George W. Bush on the occasion of his reelection November 2, 2004.
The text of the message, dated November 4, reads as follows.
“I wish to extend to you my sincere congratulations on your reelection as the President of the United States of America. The American people have again entrusted you with the highest civil office of our great nation. They have indicated their faith in you to lead them during a period of unprecedented challenges and uncertainties.
“The duties and responsibilities of your office are many and great. Not only do the American people look to you to provide guidance for our nation, but the entire world seeks in you a model of wise leadership and sound judgment. To fulfill these responsibilities you will require much prudence, endurance, discretion, and foresight. Above all, you will require steadfastness of character, a sense of hope and humility, and deep moral discernment.
“As you look ahead to your second term as President, I pray that our Lord may grant you a spirit of wisdom, peace, and strength in the exercise of all your duties. In the many difficulties and hardships that you will no doubt face over the next four years, please be assured of the constant prayers of all the hierarchs, clergy, monastics, and faithful of the Orthodox Church in America.”