Are you an answer to prayer?

The Philanthropic Society of the Orthodox Church in Calcutta, India offers blessed ministries to some of the poorest of the poor in the area.  Learn about some of their on-going ministries such as free medical care, feeding programs for those in extreme hardship including the blind, the handicapped and the elderly plus educational programs offered for youth:  http://thepsoc.org/  How wonderful that these ministries are active and making a vital contribution in so many lives on a daily basis! 

Of particular interest is the work of Sister Nektaria Paradisi—a ministry of loving care and education for children, giving hope and opportunities for both boys and girls who are orphaned.  Learn about the two Orthodox “hostels,” as they are called by Sister Nektaria, (to avoid the stigma of “home” being an orphanage in that society):   The Theotokos Girls’ Orphanage (be sure to view the inspiring video of the girls’ life called “Lucky Girls” on the same page):  http://thepsoc.org/meet-the-children-2/theotokos-girls-orphanage/ and the St. Ignatius Boys’ Orphanage, which many boys consider their home:  http://thepsoc.org/meet-the-children-2/st-ignatius-boys-orphanage/  Sister Nektaria is known affectionately to the children as “mother.” Is it any wonder why?  While yet living in her native Greece, she was greatly influenced by the work of Mother Teresa and has been laboring out of love for Christ and the precious souls of India since 1991.

The Theotokos Girls’ Orphanage reported 95 residents recently, there is room for 200, but Sister Nektaria has, sadly, had to turn away requests due to low funding at this time. 

Recent American visitors to the orphanages relate Sister Nektaria’s strong faith despite economic hardships affecting many supporters (particularly in Greece).  Nevertheless, she still has firm hope that God will continue to provide for the orphans and other philanthropic ministries of the Orthodox Church in Calcutta.  Sharing this information with others is one way that God may use to meet existing or future needs.  Perhaps after viewing these materials, you may feel the call of mercy and love for these orphans and other precious souls ministered to by faithful Orthodox servants in Calcutta.  And the King will answer them, `Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brethren, you did it to me,' (Matt 24:40)

May God bless our bond with all of humanity through opportunities for almsgiving, especially during this Lenten season.  

Your sister in Christ,

Pres. Candace