His Excellency the President of the Republic of Albania, Mr. Bamir Topi; His Excellency the Prime Minister and Chairman of the Council of Ministers of Albania, Mr. Sali Berisha:

On behalf of the faithful of the Albanian Orthodox Diocese of America, we express profound regrets over the horrific events at Gerdec Tirana. On Sunday, March 16, in the Diocese Churches, prayers were offered for the casualties, their families, and the injured. Moreover, an appeal was launched for financial contributions to assist the victims. We pray to God that the Albanian people rise to the challenge of this major human tragedy.

Bishop Ilia Katre
Albanian Orthodox Diocese of America
March 17, 2008

If you would like to make a donation
toward the relief fund, please send a check made out to St. Nicholas Albanian Orthodox Church and marked "Albanian blast fund" to:
St. Nicholas Albanian Orthodox Church
2701 N. Narragansett Ave.
Chicago, IL 60639