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Message from Metropolitan Alexios

Message from Philoptochos

 

 

 

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

Keep 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,

+ A L E X I O S

Metropolitan of Atlanta

 

 

 
 

October 9, 2024

To the Reverend Clergy, Esteemed Parish Council Presidents, and Faithful Parishioners of the Metropolis of Atlanta:

Dear Reverend Fathers and My Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

I hope this email message finds you all well, especially those whose parishes and homes are in the areas affected by the recent storms. Please know that I join all my Philoptochos sisters in praying for each and everyone of you, as we seek to offer emergency relief to those in need.

My purpose in writing is to reinforce the Archdiocese's initiative to provide national hurricane relief. In support of this effort, your Metropolis Philoptochos wants to be sure you are aware of the steps our Archdiocese is taking to collect relief funds for both Hurricanes Helene and Milton (Click here for detailed information on the National Hurricane Relief Fund). This email will also clarify how your Metropolis of Atlanta Philoptochos will proceed going forward.

First, I would be remiss if I didn't take this opportunity to thank all who answered Metropolitan Alexios's call to give to those affected by these devastating natural disasters. Your outpouring of generosity, in both prayers and assistance is very much appreciated.

Your Metropolis Philoptochos is especially thankful for our Archbishop Elpidophoros's establishment of the National Hurricane Relief Fund. The Metropolis of Atlanta will work in collaboration with the Archdiocese's newly established initiative to support those in need.

With the blessings of His Eminence Metropolitan Alexios, this means that any gifts previously sent to the Metropolis of Atlanta Philoptochos (care of our Treasurer, Martha Driscoll) will be forwarded directly to the National Hurricane Relief Fund, and the same process will apply to any future donations offered to the Metropolis of Atlanta Philoptochos as well.

We are especially thankful for the National Hurricane Relief Fund, as we are now facing two storms of unprecedented magnitude. As we work together, let us remember the words of St Paul: "We know that in everything God works for good with those who love him, who are called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28).

Again, I thank all those who have shown generosity to those impacted by Hurricane Helene, and I know that each of you will keep those in the path of Hurricane Milton in yours prayers as well.

Faithfully,

Irene Politis, President, Metropolis of Atlanta Philoptochos

Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Atlanta | 2480 Clairmont Rd. NE | Atlanta, GA 30329 US