Grand Prior's Message About Ukraine
Knights and Dames of GPUSA,
This is a difficult time to be Templar. As our sense of justice and passion for those suffering challenge us to rage, I pray we all find solace in the unshakable example of our Christ.
Please read the letter from our Grand Master and Grand Commander, linked here, wherein we are reminded in the 1841 Declaration of Principles of the Order, of our difficult role and duty as peacekeepers and bridge-builders, even and especially in times such as these.
I have rec’d many inquiries from members asking how they can help in the Ukrainian situation. While our Grand Priory must keep its focus on our mission in the Holy Land, as ever we encourage local Priories to determine their own priorities for any charities deemed worthy beyond our direct mission; helping the displaced and desperate is certainly a Templar pursuit.
Through our United Nations contacts, OSMTH has determined and recommended that our best impact will be realized by supporting USA for UNHCR, the United Nations Refugee Agency, which helps and protects refugees and people displaced by violence, conflict and persecution by providing lifesaving essentials including shelter, water, food, safety and protection. By supporting this organization, we are assured our resources are going directly to those in need.
As you know, ALL international contributions from Priories are required to be run through our 501(c)3 RDF - those wanting to support this effort, we ask that your Priory (or your Priory’s members) send donations to RDF, stipulating UNHCR, and we will ensure those funds are delivered to those in dire need, post haste. Please contact your local Prior.
Checks made out and sent to:
GEN Raymond G. Davis Templar Foundation, Inc. (UNHCR)
P.O. Box 3161
Virginia Beach, VA 23454