NEW YORK: January 4, 2008
The Christmas Appeal of the Fund for Assistance to the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia

We would like to cordially congratulate everyone with the Nativity of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and wish everyone a wonderful new year!

May God grant to all health, salvation, prosperity and all good things at this festive time of year when we are all called to remember the birth of the promised Messiah, and in accordance with the promise of new life, begin the new year with firm resolution to be the faithful servants of God and the Church!

This past year has witnessed the retirement of the former executive director of the Fund for Assistance, Yuri Iliodorivich Schidlovsky, who with great dedication and faith pioneered an organization that has provided tremendous assistance to various church-related initiatives all over the Orthodox world. It gives us great pleasure to be able to continue building upon the traditions and principles that have become the heart and soul of this philanthropic organization.

During the past year, the Fund for Assistance has been restructured to reflect the ongoing needs, as well as, potential growth presented to us. It is our mandate to continue providing support to the well-being of the entire community, emphasizing the importance of the clergy's ministry, youth initiatives, education, and other pertinent developments.

We sincerely thank all donors for their support and those who support the work of the Church. We ask that you remember us in your prayers and future material support.

Thank you and God bless you!

Metropolitan Laurus

Executive Director

V Rev Victor Potapov