Chicago, February 12, 2013
On Sunday, February 10, 2013, in Chicago, a benefit concert of liturgical music took place at Holy Resurrection Cathedral of the Serbian Orthodox Church to benefit Peter Gudkov.
It may seem strange to speak of a benefit concert as of some sort of anomaly. Especially in our time, in the internet era, for Orthodox websites provide plenty of information on charitable works such as the building of new churches, the opening of Orthodox orphanages and hospitals, etc. Indeed, when one sees the scale of such scale, the heart is filled with hope, joy for the Church of Christ and our Fatherland, we are filled with blessed inspiration. We are becoming accustomed to common charitable events and we sometimes even turn a cold shoulder. But let our hearts not cool, let us remind ourselves that every work of love which is performed in the name of Christ is a joy and a truly great event, for at this moment of kind self-sacrifice, Christ Himself comes very close to us, as never before. If we heed the words of the Apostle to bear each other’s burdens, then Christ Himself will help us in our efforts.
May the Lord bless you all!
Deacon Leonty Naidzions,
Holy Virgin Protection Cathedral, Cathedral.
The Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia