In our effort to organize the Christian Orthodox presence in South East Asia, the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople established the Orthodox Metropolitanate of Hong Kong and South East Asia in 1996 and the Orthodox Metropolitanate of Singapore and South Asia in 2008.

The two Metropolitanates encompass 23 countries in their spiritual jurisdiction. They try to activate a network of missions and charities in places where the Orthodox Christian Message is literally heard for the first time.

Unfortunately, the two Metropolitanates lack experienced personnel and funds. There have not been any organized Orthodox Communities in South East Asia.

During the last few years, mainly because of the general economic crisis, donations from friendly missionaries have been drastically reduced. We experience, on a daily basis, the sad consequences and the continuous struggle of our Metropolitanates to survive.

The majority of the clergy is not paid. One can understand the depth of the problem when the basic needs of our clergy and their families cannot be covered. It must be noted that our two Metropolitans receive no income and are not covered by any medical plan. They try to cover their personal needs with the financial help they receive from friends.

The philanthropic foundations and programs are forced to close one after the other.

There are many who urge us to close everything and leave. We do not want to believe it nor reach despair. We will continue our struggle. For as long as we can stand…