Dearly Beloved in the Lord,

On the occasion of the beginning of the solemn season of penitence, I wish you a good Lent. May we arrive in peace and repentance at Holy Week to celebrate the Passion and Resurrection of Jesus Christ our Saviour.

I am writing to let you know that the Archdiocese, in collaboration with other Greek organisations in the United Kingdom and Ireland, has decided to make a financial appeal on behalf of our brothers and sisters in Greece, particularly those in need of immediate practical support and love.

In agreement with the Archbishop of Athens and All Greece, Ieronymos, money collected by the Churches and other institutions will be gathered and deposited in an account set up for this purpose and supervised by a special Committee.

It goes without saying that every one of us ought to give generously to express our solidarity and support for the needy in Greece, and we should pray for a swift solution to the economic crisis that is plaguing that country.

I urge you, particularly the Clergy and Chairpersons of the Churches, to contribute to this appeal and to send the funds to the Archdiocese by cheque payable to “GREEK ORTHODOX ARCHDIOCESE OF THYATEIRA AND GREAT BRITAIN”. The money will be sent to the Archdiocese of Athens which will use the money for its distribution centres which care for thousands of poor people every day.

    This season of Lent is a time to remember our calling to show love and give alms, to care for our neighbour who needs our help and active kindness and compassion.

I urge you to respond to this appeal in accordance with the ability of each one of you, that we may raise significant funds for this cause.

I thank you for your cooperation and kindness toward our suffering brethren in Greece. I wish you all a happy Lent, and I remain with love in the Lord and esteem.

London, 27^th February 2012

Gregorios, Archbishop of

Thyateira & Great Britain