From September 28 to October 1, the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States convened in Atlanta, where 29 hierarchs representing the Orthodox Churches in America gathered. A key topic of discussion was the aftermath of Hurricane Helena, which caused significant destruction along the Gulf Coast, particularly in North Carolina.
The bishops expressed their condolences to the victims of the hurricane and explored ways to support those affected. The International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) has been actively assisting in the impacted areas, providing crucial aid to residents. However, recovery efforts have been hampered by blocked roads, fallen trees, and widespread flooding, leaving millions without power or access to clean water.
Hurricane Helena struck six states—North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Tennessee, and Virginia. Over 100 people have been reported dead, several hundred remain missing, and millions are still without electricity. Rivers have overflowed, and roads and bridges have been destroyed, complicating the delivery of essential supplies. North Carolina’s emergency services have received over 1,000 reports of people unable to contact loved ones. The Assembly of Bishops has called on Orthodox Christians to actively participate in providing relief to those affected by the disaster.