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Presbyterian Moderator Dr John Dixon has joined in calls for urgent aid to relieve suffering caused by the crisis in Kosovo. In a special letter to be read in all congregations of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland this Sunday, Dr Dixon tells of his "increasing grief and dismay" surrounding the tragedy in the Balkan republics.
Recognising the particular problem of refugees and mis-placed populations, Dr Dixon urges congregations to donate financially. All funds raised will be channelled directly through Tear Fund and Christian Aid, two charities involved in the Kosovan situation and which the Presbyterian Church regularly supports. In his letter the Moderator states:
"According to UNHCR figures, nearly half a million ethnic Albanians have crossed the borders of Albania and Macedonia, two of Europe's poorest countries and least equipped to cope. The refugees have arrived exhausted, traumatized and hungry with little more than the clothes they stand in. This is the largest refugee crisis in Europe since the Second World War. The most urgent needs are of shelter, food and medical supplies. I know there are many of our members who wish to help in this situation. This is an opportunity for us to 'relate with grace' to a situation of dire human need. Please help through a retiring offering or otherwise."
Church members or individuals will also be able to send remittances directly to the Financial Secretary's Office, Church House, Belfast, BT1 6DW and marked "Kosovo Appeal".
Issued by Martin McNeely, Presbyterian Information Services. Info@PresbyterianIreland.org
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