Letter of Condolence to Secretary of State Colin Powell from Metropolitan Theodosius

SYOSSET, NY --September 12, 2001

Mr. Colin Powell Secretary of State US Department of State Washington, DC 20522-0106

Dear Mr. Secretary:

I write on behalf of the Holy Synod of Bishops and the clergy and faithful of the Orthodox Church in America, to express our outrage at the terrorist attacks against the United States and its citizens. I also wish to convey our heartfelt condolences to all those who are suffering the loss of their loved ones. We turn to Christ, “the King of peace and Savior of our souls,” asking Him to grant to them—and to us—the peace that only He can give.

I have informed President Bush that prayers are being offered in all parish churches of the Orthodox Church in America for those whose lives have been lost, for those who mourn them, and for all who are suffering. Be assured, also, of our continued prayerful support for President Bush, his Cabinet and Advisors as they seek to respond justly and mercifully to this tragic attack against this nation and its people.

God bless you. God bless America.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

+Theodosius
Archbishop of Washington
Metropolitan of All America and Canada
Primate of the Orthodox Church in America