We call for all the faithful of the Patriarchal Parishes to consider joining the Appeal for the Urgent Financial Aid for the Ukrainian Refugees.

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

It is with profound pain and sorrow that we see the situation unfolding in Ukraine. The invasion of Russian troops has already caused death and destruction in many areas of the country and, as the battle progresses, the human cost, unfortunately, continues to rise. It is heartbreaking to see the images of destroyed buildings, homes, and traffic jams as refugees flee the cities for their safety.

As Orthodox Christians we are expected to help those who are suffering and give comfort to the afflicted. “If a brother or sister is ill-clad and in lack of daily food, and one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace, be warmed and filled,’ without giving them the things needed for the body, what does it profit?” (Jas. 2:16).

The donations collection has already begun by our parishes and St. Barbara Cathedral and is going to be sent on to ELEOS, the humanitarian agency of the Polish Orthodox Church, and registered with the Polish government, that is dealing directly with the unfolding refugee crisis and needs support as soon as possible. Donations will go towards refugee relief, their housing, and meeting basic needs.

This collaboration is being done with the blessing of His Beatitude Metropolitan Sawa and the other Bishops of the Polish Orthodox Church, and has already been supported by American Orthodox Churches.

We join the prayers of all Canadian Christians and all the people for a swift end to this senseless violence.

As we have entered the Great Lent, we now hear the words of the Psalmist at the Presanctified Liturgy: “Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity.” (Ps. 132). And there is no worse and more senseless a war than between brothers…

Please, take heed in supporting this incentive to give help and relief to our greatly suffering brothers and sisters!

You can contact the Rector of St. Barbara’s Cathedral, the priests of Orthodox V and Orthodox IX parishes, or Parish Councils to make your donations.

May God bless you and preserve the people of Ukraine!