His Grace the Right Reverend Iriney, Serbian Orthodox Bishop of Australia and New Zealand, has called for the Sunday, 15 February 2009 – the Great Feast of the Meeting of the Lord – to be set aside as the common day for aiding all suffering persons in Australia, that on that day we may fulfil our filial love in the Divine Love – Agape – through liturgical prayers and the solicitation of an extra collection in every parish church.

In like manner, all Church-School Community Boards are requested to set aside a financial contribution as a donation, and in addition to prepare proper events for the solicitation of funds.

And that our good deeds are not separated from prayer, all clergy are hereby directed to remember at the Great Entrance “all the victims of the fires and floods, their families, and all those who mourn or suffer”.

Indeed, those who desire and “have ears to hear”, may offer to help by turning to their local parish community and giving their donation designated for aid to those who suffer in the bush fires.

Details of bishop Iriney’s message:

http://www.soc.org.au/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=551&Itemid=30

Donations can be made through the 2009 Victorian Bushfire Fund set to assist individuals and communities affected by devastating bushfires, launched by the Premier John Brumby in partnership with Red Cross and the Federal Government:

https://www.redcross.org.au/Donations/onlineDonations.asp