His Eminence to Conduct Archpastoral Visit to Nassau, Grand Bahama Island
NEW YORK – His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America will arrive in the Bahamas on October 13 for a pastoral visit to areas recently affected by Hurricane Dorian. Leading a delegation from the Archdiocese, His Eminence is scheduled to celebrate a Hierarchal Divine Liturgy at the parish of the Annunciation of the Mother of God in Nassau. He will also visit areas which sustained extensive damage under the hurricane’s force.
Hurricane Dorian struck the Bahamas as a category 5 hurricane and one of the strongest storms ever recorded in the Atlantic. Dorian brought storm surges and extreme wind, causing extensive destruction to property and infrastructure, as well as at least 50 deaths. Many more are still missing, and thousands have been displaced. The islands of Abaco and Grand Bahama were most heavily affected.
Commenting on his upcoming pastoral visit to the people of the Bahamas, meeting members of the Annunciation parish, including government officials and social service organizations, Archbishop Elpidophoros said:
“I am anxious to visit the Faithful Greek Orthodox of our only Parish in the Caribbean Sea, and also the wider community of the Bahamas. In the company of International Orthodox Christian Charities and with a delegation from our Archdiocese in New York, we will bring our consolation and tangible assistance, and seek together how to help with their needs and concerns over the long-term recovery. They are all our sisters and brothers, and our hearts are open wide to be of service to them in Christ.”
