SEPTEMBER 11 SPECIAL EDITION
u page 12 u Thankful for leaders t
Editor, During the liturgy celebrating the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, the prayers for our president, armed forces, and our countrymen at large had special significance this year. I reflected on the many Christians who have been killed through the ages for professing their faith. As September 14 is also observed as Defenders Day in Maryland marking the end of the War of 1812 at which time our National Anthem was written, I gave thanks to the thousands of Americans who have died so that we can enjoy the freedom of life in America. This year the day was devoted to remembering and praying for the thousands of innocent citizens slaughtered at the hands of terrorists. While in the midst of devastation I am thankful that New York City has a proven leader in Mayor Giuliani who has effectively taken charge in the rescue and rebuilding strategies; and I am thankful that the nation has a president who stands tall against the enemies of our American values. President Bush demonstrated his stalwartness as he beseeched God s guidance, and proceeded with confidence in his staff and the agencies dealing with the catastrophe, and the American people; while being genuinely compassionate toward those directly affected. As I pray for the victims and our beloved country, I also pray that all Americans will support President Bush in our fight against the war waged by the tyrants who threaten our very existence in a way that terrorists understand. Eve Lallas Kingsville, Md.
u Thoughts on tragedy t
Editor, I am writing this letter with great admiration and gratitude for the manifestation of our Archdiocese s immediate and direct involvement at the September 11th tragedy for the nation and the whole world. His Eminence s personal involvement visiting the site, hospitals and families of the victims - reaching all of God s children at their hour of need, regardless of their difference in appearance of every human being everything, was cast aside and unity
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ORTHODOX OBSERVER
with love overtook all the circumstances facing America with one thought in mind, to console them and offer prayers to one God above us all. With great dignity our Church, through Archbishop Demetrios as the head of SCOBA representing all Orthodox followers, was well presented at the interfaith services at the White House, Pentagon, Yankee Stadium and elsewhere, participating in all activities concerning the unfortunate victims. Many praises are also directed to our Chancellor s office who so faithfully organized and followed up by arranging visits for our brother priests to the area of the tragedy. His Eminence s office devotedly informing the Greek Orthodox communities with daily faxes and constantly updating our Archdiocese s involvement in this hardship situation. The sorrow that has fallen upon America is indescribable but the strength of America s ancestors who fought for freedom will be sustained forever. Fr. Demetrios A. Recachinas Bridgeport, Conn.
uMore prayest
Editor, I am Father Samuel, an Indian (Malankara Orthodox ) priest and serve as a parish priest for St. Gregoriose Orthodox Church of India in Bellville, N.J.. I heard as sad news that St. Nicholas Church was lost in terrorist attack on Tuesday 11 September . My condolence and heart felt prayers. Father Samuel Fairless Hills, Pa.
uHope for restorationt
Editor, St. Nicholas is practically the only Greek Orthodox church in our country where I feel comfortable. I say feel because I know it will be rebuilt - hopefully in the same place. I m going to urge every Greek person & family member I know to send a donation, regularly, to the account. I live in Milwaukee, Wis., but would like to join as well, so I ll do so later. I wish I could be more active in the restoration, but I m in social work graduate school until spring. It was my dream to return next year with my friends to see the church. I m so sorry this has happened. I pray the holy relics are recovered. Anthe Selaiden Elm Grove, Wis.
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