ΙΕΡΑ ΑΡΧΙΕΠΙΣΚΟΠΗ

ΑΜΕΡΙΚΗΣ

November 9, 2005

The Reverend Clergy

Esteemed Members of the Parish Councils

Esteemed Members of the Philoptochos Societies

of our Holy Metropolis of New Jersey

Beloved in the Lord,    

            As Orthodox Christians we have a natural propensity to follow the teachings of the Lord and His admonitions, “then shall He answer them, saying, verily I say unto you, inasmuch as you did it not to one of the least of these, you did it not to Me.” (Mt. 25:45) Our charitable deeds to Christ’s least must always be tinctured with the counsel of St. John Chrysostom, “we should feel bound to Christ, even above the kingdom, because of His generosity.” (Homily 45 on Matthew)

            Our Clergy have always been shining examples of Christian charity and philanthropy, spearheading such programs within their respective Parishes. Unfortunately, there comes a time when many of our Retired Clergy find themselves in need, quietly and unassumingly suffering financially and emotionally. We recall St. Paul’s words, “and if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it,” (1 Cor. 12:26) which are ever so true in such cases, especially when an entire Clergy family is suffering.

            In an effort to assist our brethren Retired Clergy, you are wholeheartedly encouraged to generously support and donate to the “Greek Orthodox Archdiocese Clergy Benevolent Fund.” This special fund serves as a wellspring of financial support for our Clergy families that have a dire need for such assistance. Your love and generosity will do much to aid these families, who over their years of ministry have contributed immensely to our Holy Orthodox Church, receiving but a fraction of our gratitude and appreciation.

            You are kindly asked to make your checks payable to the “Greek Orthodox Archdiocese Clergy Benevolent Fund” and send them to the Holy Metropolis of New Jersey, which in turn will forward them to the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America.

Thanking all of you for your most generous and caring gifts of love, I remain

                                                                With Paternal Love and Blessings,

                                                               †E V A N G E L O S 

                                                               Metropolitan of New Jersey                                                                                                                          

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