The head of the MOC-OA, His Holiness Stefan, calls for unity and prayer after the terrible tragedy in Kocani, in which 59 innocent young people lost their lives and over a hundred were seriously injured. National unity and solidarity, the Archbishop of Ohrid and Macedonia emphasizes, are most evident and most needed in such ominous circumstances.

– The Holy Macedonian Orthodox Church constantly prays for the salvation of the innocent victims, serving commemorations for the deceased and offering prayers for the healing of the injured, as well as for the comfort of their families and loved ones. In these days of mourning, we call on our faithful people to focus their hearts together in prayer to the Lord, asking Him to receive the souls of the newly introduced children of God into the arms of Abraham, and to grant the injured a speedy recovery. National cohesion and unity are most evident and most needed in such ominous circumstances. Therefore, we call on all faithful children of the Mother Macedonian Church and all citizens of Macedonia to preserve peace within ourselves and peace among ourselves and, praying diligently, to mourn with dignity. With God's blessing, says the Archbishop of Ohrid and Macedonia, His Holiness Stefan, in his message.