2015 Paschal Message of the National Commander
New York, NY – As we Orthodox Christians celebrate the Resurrection of our Lord and Savior when He trampled down death and rose again, according to the Scriptures; let us not lose hope in the midst of a world in which the Children of Abraham are being butchered in the most horrific demonstration of man’s inhumanity to man since the time of Diocletian in 303 AD. In this modern day war against Christians, let us be reminded of the encouraging and uplifting words of His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew during the 60 MinutesBob Simon interview, “After the crucifixion comes the Resurrection.”
The Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox National Shrine at Ground Zero will be resurrected after evil extremists destroyed it on September 11, 2001. With its inherent brilliant luminescence in the building materials utilized, it will serve as a beacon reminding the oikoumene, the word’s inhabitants that ultimately good will triumph over evil and that Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.1 Corinthians 13:4-7
The Order of Saint Andrew, the Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate in America and Defenders of the Faith, with the blessings of His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios and the Holy Synod, joined by our Spiritual Advisor Fr. Alexander Karloutsos will continue to always raise the resurrection banner of religious freedom for the Apostolic See of Saint Andrew so that the unwaning light of the Phanar may forever enlighten God’s oikoumene and the bells of Saint George Patriarchal Cathedral may ring joyously with the good news that the Great Church of Christ is free… finally free at last to proclaim to all…
Christ is Risen! Truly He is Risen!
Anthony J. Limberakis, MD
National Commander, Archon Aktouarios