12/13/02

Statement by the Greek Orthodox Diocese of Boston on Cardinal Law's resignation:

The resignation of Archbishop Bernard Cardinal Law is greeted by the Greek Orthodox Community with great sadness and the fervent prayer and hope that healing, peace and tranquility may be restored to our brothers and sisters in the Roman Catholic community.

We pray for Cardinal Law who worked closely over the years of his ministry with the Orthodox Christian Community in Boston and throughout New England, providing many opportunities of prayer and common social action. He exemplified visionary and dynamic leadership, fostering ecumenical encounters and cooperation between all Christian Churches. He reached out to the entire Interfaith Community, especially since the tragedy of September 11, 2001. His leadership resulted in renewed awareness concerning the role that all faiths can play in the pursuit of world peace and respect for human rights and dignity. We are appreciative of his care and outreach to the poor and disenfranchised in our neighborhoods, specifically in providing housing for the poor, elderly and homeless.

We have witnessed the trials and tribulations suffered by our sister Church, its dedicated clergy and devout laity, most especially the criminally victimized innocent children. Regrettably, the salvific ministry of consecrated clergy throughout the Roman Catholic Archdiocese has been overshadowed by the unspeakable, criminal behavior of a handful. Approaching the Feast of Christmas, we reflect upon the Prince of Peace, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We pray that the Healer of our souls and bodies bring healing to the victims and their families, and that Christmas 2002 be a time of forgiveness, reconciliation, and renewal for all.