The Head of the Russian Orthodox Christian Church, Patriarch Alexi-II has urged his Christian countrymen and people of goodwill to come forward in generously helping the tsunami victims in seven Asian countries.
"The modern man is inclined to stake on the technical achievements of the Civilisation, often forgetting the God. But we know that nothing can happen without the will of the Lord, that's why there is no need for despair and losing hope of His mercy," Patriarch Alexi-II said in his message urging the Russian Christians to render assistance to the tsunami-hit people in the seven nations.
"The Russian Orthodox Church prays for the peace to the souls of perished in sudden death and sympathises with those who lost shelter and livelihood," the head of the Russian Church was quoted as saying by ITAR-TASS.
Moscow Patriarchate has also opened a special bank account to collect donations.
Patriarch's appeal has a special importance for the Russian Christians as it is made ahead of Orthodox Christmas celebrated on January 7 (December 25 according to Julian calendar).