Visit of bishop Athanasios of Benin and planning of humanitarian activities

Last week we were delighted to welcome Bishop Athanasios of Benin to the Orthodox Missionary Fraternity offices. This dedicated African evangelist works tirelessly to spread Orthodoxy throughout the heart of Africa.

His visit brought us great spiritual joy and inspiration. He shared updates on the missionary activities in Benin, Togo, and Burkina Faso—countries that may lack material wealth but whose people hunger for Christ. He so described the steady progress being made in these regions.

At the same time, he highlighted the serious challenges the Mission faces. Basic necessities are scarce, healthcare is inadequate, and grinding poverty often undermines human dignity. These are daily realities for the communities they serve. He stressed the urgent need for food, clothing, school supplies, and church materials that could provide real relief to our brothers and sisters there.

The Bishop requested that the Fraternity send a container of humanitarian aid, as we have done before thanks to the generosity of Mission supporters. We discussed the details and scheduled the shipment from our Filyro facility for late September to early October. God willing, we hope to fill that container with the most precious gift Orthodox people can offer: love in action.

Before leaving, Bishop Athanasios expressed his heartfelt gratitude and asked God to bless everyone and strengthen all those who support the missionary work.