10/19/2024
Today, the Order solemnly commemorates all those who lost their lives at Saint Porphyrios Orthodox Church in Gaza. One year ago, over 500 innocent civilians sought refuge within the church and its social halls, believing they would find safety, as they had in past conflicts. Tragically, their hopes were shattered when an Israeli airstrike targeted the church compound, resulting in devastating consequences. The initial attack claimed the lives of 18 individuals—17 Orthodox Christians and one Muslim man who served as the church’s guardian. In the aftermath, many more lives were lost in the days, weeks, and months that followed, leaving a profound impact on the community and beyond.
Those killed at Saint Porphyrios serve as a poignant reminder of life’s fragility and the urgency of our faith. Their sacrifice will not be in vain. Instead, it will inspire us to rekindle our love and compassion as we pray for them, for Gaza, for Palestine, and for all who have suffered and continue to endure the pain of this ongoing war.
Amidst the heart-wrenching strife we have witnessed in Gaza over the past year, we express our profound gratitude to Archbishop Alexios and Father Silas Habeb for their unwavering pastoral care and leadership. In this time of despair, they have emerged as beacons of hope, faithfully leading daily services, providing comfort, and sheltering their community, even at great personal risk. Archbishop Alexios has blessed the Order as the sole international non-governmental organization permitted to raise funds for the community of Saint Porphyrios. He regards the church as “a treasure of Christianity,” yet his commitment to his people takes precedence. Approaching seventy years old, the Archbishop remains resolute in his determination not to abandon his flock. He has prioritized the well-being of his community over his own safety, serving as a living testament that the Church transcends mere buildings. The true essence of the Church lies in its faithful members, created in the Image and Likeness of Christ, who are most in need of our love and support.
As we reflect on the teachings of Matthew 25, we are called to action: to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, provide medicine and water, and offer shelter to those who have lost everything. In doing so, we serve Christ Himself, who calls us to embody love in the face of suffering.
The Order of Saint George the Great Martyr is diligently working to ensure that Archbishop Alexios and Father Silas receive the necessary resources to support their beleaguered flock. We remain steadfast in our commitment to this mission and to assisting the men, women, and children seeking refuge at Saint Porphyrios. Currently, there are 350 individuals, including 60 children—some as young as infants—sheltering within its ancient walls. They have endured unimaginable suffering while demonstrating remarkable resilience and true Christian love for one another.
We invite you to join us in honoring the memory of those who perished in the bombing of Saint Porphyrios. A memorial service has been arranged, and all are welcome to gather in remembrance of the lives tragically lost. The service will take place immediately following the Divine Liturgy at Saint Nicholas Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral in Brooklyn, NY. A light agape meal hosted by the Order will follow the service, providing an opportunity for fellowship and reflection as we stand united in faith and love. The memorial service will be held on October 27th, 2024, at Saint Nicholas Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral, 355 State Street, Brooklyn, NY 11217. Orthros begins at 9:20 AM, and Divine Liturgy follows at 10:30 AM.
The Order remains committed to the community of Saint Porphyrios, to Archbishop Alexios of Tiberias, to the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem, and to all Christians who live and breathe not only in Gaza but across the Holy Land, Lebanon, and the Middle East.