On the occasion of the devastating floods affecting Austria, particularly in the Danube region, Metropolitan Arsenios of Austria and Exarch of Hungary expressed his deep sorrow and solidarity with those affected.
His message is addressed with sincerity and spiritual support to those experiencing unprecedented hardships and dangers, while also recognizing and praising the heroic efforts of the rescue teams and all the volunteers actively assisting in the restoration of the damage.
With fervent prayer, he calls upon Almighty God to show His compassion and offer relief to the afflicted, while emphasizing the need for continuous care for the protection of the natural environment.
Find below the message
With sadness and heartache, we follow the developments of the floods caused by extreme natural phenomena in Austria, particularly in the Danube region.
We share the anxiety and difficulties faced by thousands of our brothers who are forced to immediately confront unprecedented disasters and dangers, and we sincerely participate in the efforts to restore both the material damages and the disturbed peace of mind of the affected and all those who are directly supporting them.
The admirable efforts of the rescue teams, the Fire Department, and all the professionals and volunteers who morally and materially assist our afflicted fellow citizens during these critical times and care for the restoration of material damages are especially commendable.
We fervently beseech the Almighty Triune God to show His compassion, to calm the raging force of the natural elements, to console the suffering, and to strengthen every human action and effort on their behalf. We, therefore, appeal to everyone to show their support in every possible way to our tested brothers and to continuously care for the protection of the natural environment.
Translated by Ioanna Georgakopoulou