|
October 7, 2024
To the Reverend Clergy & the Esteemed Parish Council Presidents of the Metropolis of Atlanta:
My dear Brothers and Sisters in the Lord,
“Deliver this community and city, O Lord, and every city and town,
from famine, plague, earthquake, hurricane tornado and flood.”
(From St. Basil’s Liturgy)
I greet you with love in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!
I begin this message in a spirit of gratitude for the way our Metropolis has come together to support those affected by Hurricane Helene. Specifically, I wish to thank Mrs. Irene Politis whose leadership established our Metropolis Philoptochos's relief efforts quickly, and is collaborating with the National Philoptochos as well.
Unfortunately in hurricane season, there is very little rest, and now Hurricane Milton approaches our beloved Tampa Bay area, even as it still recovers. Therefore, this letter is sent to you, our Clergy & Parish Council Presidents in a spirit of preparation, so that all our parishes--and especially those in the path of the storm-- are aware that the same resources shall be available if--God forbid--homes or livelihoods should be affected when Milton makes landfall.
To refer a Greek Orthodox parishioner in need, please use the attached referral form (click here). This will assist the Metropolis Philoptochos Board in allocating funds & resources to specific Orthodox Christian families and/or individuals. Send all requests directly to Philoptochos by emailing Eviskaplanis@aol.com & Chagaristina@gmail.com. Presvytera Evi & Tina will then directly work with the affected families and individuals.
Remember also, that the Metropolis Philoptochos is currently collecting relief funds for Helene, and the same address information will also apply in the case of Milton. Please print this email as a future reference as well, sending gifts to:
Metropolis of Atlanta Philoptochos
c/o Martha Driscoll
1228 Sherlock Drive
Marietta, GA 30066
Kee in mind also IOCC whose Hurricane Helene response page can be found here, especially since it may soon be updated with information about Milton.
Beyond these two worthy Orthodox Christian organizations, however, keep in mind the quick responses of both the American Red Cross, and Samaritan's Purse.
Finally, I know that all of those in the storm's path shall abide by the directions of their local and state authorities. Know that you are all in my prayers, and those of all your brothers and sisters as well. I remain,
Paternally yours with blessings and love in the Lord,
| 
