The Archbishop of Cyprus expresses sadness and shock over the tragedy of the deadly fire that is hitting the island.
This is his written statement.
I express my deepest shock at the tragedy that is befalling our island as a result of the devastating fires that are still raging. Our sorrow and pain are unspeakable, both for the loss of human lives, for our fellow human beings who were injured, and for those who lost their homes and property and are bearing the cross of their own terrible ordeal.
At this time, many words are unnecessary. We only emphasize the need to calmly deal with the situation and provide all possible support to our brothers and sisters, who are particularly affected by the fires during these critical hours. The thoughts and prayers of all turn to them and embrace them with all the warmth of our love and support.
We emphasize that, in these tragic hours that we are going through, the Church of Cyprus, and I personally, stand in solidarity with them and participate wholeheartedly in their unbearable pain.
We also express all our love and support to the members of the Fire Department, the Police, the medical and nursing staff, the Civil Defense and, in general, all the state services and volunteer groups who are fighting in this unequal fight.
We pray that God will rest the souls of our brothers, who so unexpectedly lost their lives, and that He will strengthen and comfort their families in their profound grief and pain. We also pray that God will give strength and courage to our wounded for their speedy recovery.
Soon, as the Church of Cyprus, we will examine ways to support our affected fellow human beings.
