BALTIMORE, MD – Partnering with local clergy and volunteers, International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) celebrates “IOCC Sunday: A Day of Sharing” in parishes across the United States on November 24 this year, elevating the transformational work the Church creates through IOCC.

Designated by the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States of America, IOCC Sunday, always the Sunday before Thanksgiving, lifts up the global work of the Assembly’s humanitarian and development agency. IOCC Sunday offers parishes an annual forum for highlighting Orthodox philanthropy and joining IOCC’s endeavors. The tie to Thanksgiving in the United States, a feast of gratitude, underlines the Gospel emphasis on sharing God’s gifts with others.

In recognition of the occasion, IOCC’s liaison from the Assembly of Bishops, His Eminence Metropolitan Nicolae of the Romanian Orthodox Metropolia of the Americas, has offered a special encyclical to the clergy brotherhood that may be shared with parishioners. The encyclical, along with additional resources for the day, have been mailed to parishes.

Volunteer supporters of various Orthodox jurisdictions have organized numerous events for IOCC Sunday. Featuring highlights of IOCC’s service, 2019’s “Day of Sharing” initiatives across the country range from coffee-hour presentations to specially dedicated bake sales.

Additional resources, including printable bulletin inserts, a poster, and the IOCC Sunday encyclical are available for download at iocc.org/dayofsharing.

To support IOCC Sunday with a financial gift, please contact IOCC online: iocc.org/dayofsharing or by phone: 877-803-4622.

International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) is the humanitarian and development agency of the Assembly of Canonical Bishops of the United States of America. Since its inception in 1992, IOCC has provided more than $692 million in humanitarian relief and sustainable development programs in over 60 countries worldwide. Today, IOCC applies its expertise in humanitarian response to natural and manmade crises in Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and the United States, offering assistance based solely on need.

Learn more at iocc.org and follow @IOCCRelief on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.