Abp. Alexei Calls for Prayer Following Flooding in Alaska

Archbishop Alexei of Sitka and Alaska. Photo: OCA

ANCHORAGE — In light of recent storms and flooding in western Alaska, Abp. Alexei of the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) has called for fervent prayer.

According to CBS, the remnants of Typhoon Halong brought hurricane-force winds and catastrophic flooding to coastal communities in western Alaska on Sunday, pushing entire houses off their foundations. Up to 20 people have been reported as missing, and while dozens have been rescued, it is possible there are more unaccounted for in the homes that floated away.

The full address of the Russian Orthodox Diocese of Sitka and Alaska is published below:

His Eminence, Archbishop Alexei, has called upon the faithful of the Diocese to fervent prayer in response to the devastating storms and floods that have struck western Alaska, bringing great hardship to many families.

In particular, we hold before the Lord the communities of Kwigillingok, Kipnuk, Napakiak, Kongiganak, and Bethel, together with all the villages of the Yukon–Kuskokwim Delta, Nunivak Island, and the coastal settlements toward Norton Sound. We especially remember the 20 people reported to be missing since the flooding began.

Throughout the coming week, the clergy are directed to offer petitions during the Divine Services for those who remain missing, for those courageously engaged in search and rescue efforts, and for those who have lost their homes, livelihoods, and stability.

The diocese confirms the safety of Father Noah of Kwigillingok and his family, even as their home, along with many others, was swept away by the river’s rising waters. With sorrow, it was also reported that Saint Michael Church in Kwigillingok was torn from its foundation and carried downstream.

Please continue to hold Western Alaska and her people in your prayers as civil and tribal authorities search for missing persons and work to reconnect families. As efforts to help those affected become established, we will keep the Diocese updated.

One of the prayers for Western Alaska

O Lord Jesus Christ our God, Who didst rebuke the winds and the sea and there was a great calm, look down in Thy mercy upon Western Alaska. Rescue the missing, guard the living, heal the wounded, strengthen those who labor in peril to save and to serve, and temper the elements for Thy people’s good. By the prayers of Thy Most Pure Mother and of our Father among the Saints Herman of Alaska, grant protection, consolation, and hope; for Thou art a merciful God and the Lover of mankind. Through the prayers of our holy fathers have mercy on us and save us!

Previously, UOJ reported that Abp. Alexei offered advice on how families can enrich their prayer lives.

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