Alexios Mar Eusebius

Metropolitan

January 15, 2010

Blessings to our Dearly Beloved Chor-Episcopoi, Priests, Deacons, Parish Managing Committee members, and all the faithful,

Dearly Beloved,

It is with a sorrowful heart that we write to you following the massive earthquake that struck Haiti on Tuesday, January 12, 2010.

We would be very much concerned about an earthquake of this magnitude in the world, but it is most devastating that such a tragedy took place in the country of Haiti where many were already suffering because of the country's poor infrastructure and extreme poverty.

It is feared that more than 100,000 people may have lost their lives and over one-third of Haiti's population is in need of emergency aid. The country is struggling to handle the victims in hospitals, and basic technology such as electricity and phone are out of service. There is a great struggle for the major international organizations in the rescue operations. It has been said that it would take several years to rebuild the nation from this catastrophe. Among those who have departed from us are the Roman Catholic Archbishop, diplomats, officials of the United Nations, and thousands of innocent people.

We have a great obligation to take part in this rescue and relief process by extending our prayerful and financial support. The time is now, and we need to show our Christian love towards the people of Haiti who are in great distress.

We, the members of the Diocese of South-West America commit to supporting the people of Haiti in every way possible. We appeal to all the members of our Diocese to extend a helping hand and contribute generously to this great need that cannot be delayed. Every earning member of the parish should contribute towards this earthquake relief, and the total amount collected should be sent along with this Sunday's offertory to the Diocesan office at the earliest. The collected donations will be sent to the Haiti relief fund on behalf of our Diocese.

My Dear Children, there is always a question raised among believers as to why the innocent suffer. Throughout Biblical history, we see many innocent who have suffered including the righteous Job and the people during the period of Noah and the great flood. In the individualistic world that we live in today, we have lost sight of our collective sins that contribute to the evil and suffering in this world. The consequence of sin is faced by all mankind. Let us make a commitment to restore our relationship with Christ, so that we may live a righteous life that is pleasing unto God and rid the world from sin and evil.

We remember those who have departed from us and pray that God may sprinkle upon their bones the dew of His grace and mercy. We exhort all parishes to conduct a special prayer this Sunday for those affected by the earthquake in Haiti, that God may provide healing, comfort, and peace to a country that is in great distress.

Your Shepherd in Christ,

Alexios Mar Eusebius Metropolitan