The earthquake of December 7, 1988 claimed more than 20,000 lives in one of the saddest pages in history of the Armenian nation. However, the world responded with the mass recovery effort in what seemed to be the blink of an eye. Helping Haiti has become the priority of the world now.

We were profoundly saddened to learn of the cataclysmic earthquake which struck the island- nation of Haiti on Tuesday, January 12, 2010. In our prayers, let us beseech the Lord to grant eternal peace to the victims and consolation and comfort to their loved ones. May the Lord bestow courage upon the rescue workers in their mission.   

His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate, has requested the Parishes throughout the Western Diocese to contribute to the much needed relief efforts. Through the American Red Cross, The Western Diocese will devote the incoming funds for immediate relief.

For those who wish to contribute to the recovery efforts of the devastating earthquake, you may send your checks (with the memo “Haitian Earthquake Recovery Relief”) to the Headquarters of the Western Diocese at 3325 N. Glenoaks Blvd., Burbank, CA 91504.

The Primate’s call for response will be posted in a later communiqué.