For immediate release 10 October 2005 11:05AM
Hong Kong (OP) - On Saturday, October 8, a major earthquake hit Pakistan, leaving thousands dead and the numbers continue to rise.
Pakistan belongs to the Metropolitanate of Hong Kong and Southeast Asia and there is a small Orthodox community there named in honor of Saint Alexander, the Patriarch of Constantinople (The Metropolitanate is under the spiritual jurisdiction of the Ecumenical Patriarchate).
His Eminence Metropolitan NIKITAS has been in contact with the faithful there by telephone. He was informed that there was no loss of life in the Orthodox community, although there is unbelievable damage and suffering in the area of Lahore, where the community is located. The Metropolitan has already released funds to assist in the relief work. The local Orthodox community will purchase various supplies and materials and give them to those in need, as an expression of love for others. Orthodox faithful are already taking and active role in the efforts.
Metropolitan NIKITAS also stated that he and Dean Triantafilou, IOCC Executive Director, have been in contact, so that efforts might be properly coordinated. Anyone wishing to support the relief efforts may send a donation to IOCC (International Orthodox Christian Charities) or directly to the Metropolitanate. Any donations sent to the Metropolitanate must be made payable to "Orthodox Metropolitanate of Hong Kong and Southeast Asia" (earmarked for earthquake relief) and mailed to 704 Universal Trade Centre, 3 Arbuthnot Road, Hong Kong.