I would like to express my sincere condolences on the recent tragic events that have befallen Japan. The pictures of biblical destruction on the aftermath of the terrible earthquake - tsunami that hit your country have filled our hearts with sorrow and sympathy for the brave people of Japan, especially for our Orthodox Brethren.
We humbly pray to our Lord to grant to all of you spiritual strength to cope with the grave difficulties and heal the wounds of this catastrophic event.
Yesterday, Sunday of Orthodoxy, we recited a special prayer, during the procession of the holy icons, for all the people of Japan, for those who lost their lives so abruptly and tragically and for all those who suffer the consequences and are in need of support.
Having you in our thoughts and prayers, I wish you strength from above and a fruitful Great Lent.