A pastoral letter for those affected by wildfires in Los Angeles

Beloved sisters and brothers: 

The raging fires in Los Angeles in southern California, USA, have impacted many communities. At publication time, the fires have destroyed more than 160 km², claimed the lives of at least 24 with dozens missing or unaccounted for, and destroyed more than 10,000 structures, including homes and churches.

MWC member churches affected:

• From Pasadena Mennonite and Wholicare Community Missionary churches of Mennonite Church USA, dozens of households were displaced by evacuation orders and three lost their homes to fire.
• From the Mennonite Brethren, there are 12 churches in the region. None were directly affected but Iglesia de Restauración La Senda Antingua in Pacoima remains at risk as fires continue and winds blow.
• From JKI Anugerah – Grace International Christian Fellowship, a part of Mosaic Mennonite Conference, many members have evacuated and received reports of damaged homes and one family has lost their home to fire.
• Several BIC churches in the region are deeply involved in relief and response to displaced people.
• Full Circle Thrift, a store owned by Pacific Southwest Mennonite Conference remains standing even while businesses and homes all around were burned to the ground.

Pray for the families who are dealing with fear and displacement or grief at the loss of homes.

Pray for the firefighters who are doing dangerous work over long hours.

Pray for city, county, state and federal officials who direct the response to this catastrophe.

Pray for Anabaptist church leaders and members as they respond to the great needs in congregations and throughout the region.

Pray for all affected communities as they seek to find ways that will help hope and healing.

In addition, pray that the United States will experience a peaceful transition in government leadership in the days ahead, and that partisanship will not hinder the delivery of aid.

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change…”
Psalm 46:1-2

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
In the name of Jesus, Prince of Peace, amen.