In his message for the 47th Anniversary of the Turkish Invasion of Cyprus, Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco referred to “the destruction, persecution, loss of homes, jobs and lives are constant reminders of those very dark days which still persist 47 years later.”
In his message, the Metropolitan asked each parish of the Metropolis of San Francisco to offer a memorial service for all those who lost their lives during the Turkish invasion.
The Metropolitan said the prayer must continue so that those who still suffer in Northern Cyprus can find peace and justice.
Read the full message of Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco:
47th Anniversary of the Turkish Invasion of Cyprus
Beloved Brothers and Sisters in the Lord,
“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33
On July 20, 1974 the people of Northern Cyprus suffered greatly during the invasion of the Turkish forces. Since that day, their lives have forever been changed.
The destruction, persecution, loss of homes, jobs and lives are constant reminders of those very dark days which still persist 47 years later.
While we are blessed with many freedoms in this country, many other parts of the world continue to suffer under oppression.
We should be grateful for the liberty that we enjoy, while remembering in fervent prayer all those whose rights have been taken away and continue to be persecuted.
As you gather in church on Sunday, July 18, 2021, I ask that each parish in our Metropolis offer a Memorial Service in remembrance of all those who lost their lives during the Turkish invasion of Cyprus.
Let us call to mind our brothers and sisters in Northern Cyprus who are still suffering, lifting them up in prayer, and seeking peace and justice for their homeland through the Lord’s wisdom and mercy.
We must continue to honor them with our prayers as well as with our ongoing commitment for the restoration of their deserved freedom.
With Love in Christ,
+ G E R A S I M O S
Metropolitan of San Francisco
