Dispatch of Humanitarian Aid to Benin

On Sunday, October 19, with the blessing of His Eminence Metropolitan Barnabas of Neapolis, the Orthodox Missionary Fraternity dispatched another container of humanitarian aid destined for the Holy Diocese of Benin, Togo, and Burkina Faso.

The container held over 24 tons of essential goods, of which 18 tons were foodstuffs, including powdered milk, sunflower oil, rice, tomato paste, pasta, sugar, salt, and biscuits.

Essential ecclesiastical items were also sent, such as a holy altar tabernacle, candelabra, and other liturgical objects from the Holy Church of Agia Marina Thessaloniki, as well as candles and holy oil from the Holy Monastery of Proussos. A special place in the shipment was held by two new bells, a donation from the Missionary Association “Saint Cosmas Aetolos.” The Holy Monastery of Saint Arsenios of Halkidiki and parishes from Crete also contributed to the offering by sending valuable foodstuffs.

Great joy and emotion were spread by the presence of the active missionary, His Grace Bishop Polycarpos of Bunia and Kisangani, who blessed the mission, strengthening the volunteers who worked for the procurement and collection of goods, their packaging, and loading.

We glorify the Holy Name of God that, through the love of so many people, the philanthropic and missionary work of the Orthodox Church continues and is strengthened throughout the world. The solidarity and unity around this endeavor constitute a living testimony of Christian faith and love.