Embracing the Mission of IOCC
A Reflection by Rev. Protopresbyter Nicholas Triantafilou
Ukraine, Gaza, Ethiopia, Lebanon, Haiti—
These areas of illness, conflict, war and strife are so distant from our shores. Yet, when we concentrate on the reality of our daily experience as a world family, it is not quite so. How wonderful! IOCC is there to extend our presence: each of us individually, and all of us collectively.
The local Orthodox parish and IOCC are intrinsically interwoven. In the service of the Proskomidi, we, as liturgically celebratory priests, are privileged to remember individuals in troubled areas, and entire nations. Yes, we are one family in God.
We are likewise blessed to be able to schedule talks, lectures, and supplicatory services aimed at appealing to God for his compassion, and to inform the faithful of the tragic happenings affecting our brothers and sisters. Are we also not given the opportunity to organize fundraising events to gather crucial necessities and financial support for their basic survival? Every offering is welcomed by God and respected by the recipients. Yes, we are one family in Christ our Lord.
We are called to love all:
“If we love one another, God abides in us and His love has been perfected in us.” – 1 John 4:12
In the 63 years that God has allowed me to serve Him, I have been able to witness the joys and blessings of His love in action. IOCC is certainly among these blessings. Please do not hesitate, do not procrastinate, do not question, do not postpone your joining in God’s pastoral and ever-present embrace of those who are suffering. Be an energetic participant in the holy mission of International Orthodox Christian Charities. IOCC is in every parish, and every parish is in IOCC.
Rev. Protopresbyter Nicholas Triantafilou
