Beloved in the Lord,
The third day has passed since the horrific tragedy in which 59 of our innocent young children lost their lives, and over a hundred others sustained severe injuries. Since then, the Holy Macedonian Orthodox Church has been continuously praying for the salvation of those who perished, offering memorial services for the departed, and lifting prayers for the healing of the injured, as well as for the comfort of their families and loved ones.
In these days of mourning, we call upon our faithful people to unite their hearts in prayer to the Lord, asking Him to receive the souls of His newly departed children into the bosom of Abraham and to grant a swift recovery to the injured.
National unity and solidarity are most evident—and most needed—during such tragic moments. Therefore, we urge all faithful children of the Mother Macedonian Church and all citizens of Macedonia to preserve peace within themselves and among each other and, with fervent prayer, to mourn with dignity.
With God’s blessing,
ARCHBISHOP OF OHRID AND MACEDONIA
S T E F A N
