JOHNSTOWN, PA -- Dear faithful of the American Carpatho-Russian Orthodox Diocese of the USA and friends, we offer our prayers and condolences for all those who were injured and lost their lives  in the aftermath of yesterday's terrorist attack in Boston. We share with you the following statement issued yesterday by His Eminence, Metropolitan Methodios of  the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Boston:

To the Reverend Clergy and Faithful Stewards of the Metropolis of Boston

Brethren,

We are all shocked with today's terrorist attack at the Boston Marathon. Once again, evil reared its ugly head and countless of our fellow citizens have been victimized. Our prayers and thoughts are with the victims and their families, as well as our governor, mayor, and police officials. We stand by our law enforcement agencies and all the heroic first responders as they begin the process of fully investigating this act of terrorism, and bring to justice those responsible.

Today is Patriot's Day during which we remember the heroes of the Battles of Lexington and Concord, and the first battles of the American Revolutionary War. Annually on this day, the historic Boston Marathon takes place as a long-standing tradition which brings together diverse people from across our community, the nation, and around the world, to celebrate the virtues of hard work and perseverance in one of the world's most well-known sporting events. Let us not be deterred by this cowardly act of hatred, but stand united in the exercise of freedom and justice, as we pray for peace and love to reign in our society.

I ask our parishes throughout the Metropolis to offer prayers for the repose of the souls of those who tragically lost their lives today, and to pray for the healing of all those who were injured. May the God of Peace and Mercy bring His peace upon our community. I pray that you and your loved ones are safe and secure. We will continue to stay in touch as further details on this evolving tragedy emerge.

With Archpastoral Love,