His Eminence KYRILL Archbishop of San Francisco and Western America calls upon the clergy and faithful of the Diocese to take note of a Statement issued by our First Hierarch Metropolitan Nicholas concerning the Church's relation to personal opinion or political affiliation. 

Many of us are aware of the devastating fires that have struck the Los Angeles area and Southern California this week. Tens of thousands of acres burned; cities and neighborhoods leveled; lives lost and miles of decimation.  It is in these moments that Orthodox Christians need to demonstrate the spiritual fortitude given to them, by the Grace of God, to help all those in need.

First, I call upon the flock of the Western American Diocese to pray for an end to the suffering caused by the horrible infernos.  “It is vital to continue in prayer for as long as we can, so that His invincible strength may penetrate and enable us to resist every destructive influence” - St. Sophrony of Essex. 

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace and goodwill toward men. (Luke 2:14)

CHRIST IS BORN! GLORIFY HIM!

Your Graces, Reverend-Fathers and beloved in Christ!

With the saints, give rest, O Christ, to the soul of Thy servant!

Archbishop Peter of Chicago and Mid-America, member of the Synod of Bishops of the Russian Church Abroad, has reposed in the Lord.

We express our condolences to all his relatives and to all who knew the bishop during his life.

A memorial service will be held at the Cathedral of the Mother of God "Joy of All Who Sorrow" in San Francisco today, November 8, at 7:30.

Archbishop Peter was born in this city and was tonsured a reader by Saint John of Shanghai and San Francisco.

We call upon all clergy and laity to pray for the repose of the newly departed Archbishop Peter!

May the Lord number his soul with the righteous, where there is no sickness, no sorrow, no sighing, but Life everlasting!

+ Archbishop Kirill
+ Bishop Theodosy
+ Bishop James