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Beloved Faithful of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA,
It is with a pastoral heart that I write to you today to share the news that His Eminence, Metropolitan Antony, our beloved spiritual father and the Primate of our Holy Church, has been hospitalized due to heart-related health concerns. While his condition is stable, he remains under the care of dedicated medical professionals who are working diligently for his recovery.
As we face this moment together, I ask that each of us turns to the power of prayer, calling upon the Lord, our Divine Physician, for healing and restoration. Let us remember the words of the Apostle James: "The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective" (James 5:16). United in faith, we are called to lift Metropolitan Antony in fervent prayer, asking God to strengthen his heart, body, and spirit.
In times like these, we are reminded of the boundless love and care of our Lord, who never leaves His flock in need. Our prayers are not only a source of spiritual strength for Metropolitan Antony but also a testament to the unity and love that define our Holy Church. Together, as one family in Christ, let us remain steadfast in our hope and trust in God's providence.
I also encourage all our faithful to demonstrate the same love and care that our Lord teaches us to embody. Reach out to one another, support those in need, and reflect the compassion that Metropolitan Antony has always exemplified in his ministry.
Please join me in offering this prayer:
“O Heavenly Physician, Lord Jesus Christ, we humbly beseech You to look upon Your servant, Metropolitan Antony, with Your merciful eyes. Grant him strength in body and peace in spirit, that he may continue to shepherd Your flock with wisdom and love. Guide the hands of those entrusted with his care, and may Your healing grace restore him to health. We entrust him to Your loving embrace, O Lord, for You are the source of life, hope, and peace. Amen.”
In the days ahead, I will continue to provide updates on Metropolitan Antony's condition as they become available. Let us remain united in prayer, love, and hope, placing our trust in the Lord, who works all things for the good of His people.
With heartfelt blessings,
+Daniel
Archbishop and President of the Consistory of the
Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA |