Photo Credit: Jessica Christian on Unsplash
GIVE. ACT. PRAY.
The beginning of this year has brought unprecedented challenges for our neighbors in California, who are now facing a devastating disaster. The harrowing images of wildfires consuming parts of Los Angeles and Ventura counties have deeply impacted us all, stirring our hearts with sorrow and compassion. Authorities are reporting this as a historic and deadly wildfire event. More than 40,000 acres have burned, with over 12,300 structures destroyed, entire communities wiped out, and tens of thousands of residents displaced. Currently, 92,000 residents are under evacuation orders, and 89,000 more remain in evacuation warning zones, meaning they may need to leave their homes at a moment’s notice. Tragically, at least 24 lives have been lost, and the numbers continue to rise as fires remain uncontained. This is an ongoing disaster, and the extent of damage and loss continues to evolve, with figures expected to change as the situation develops.
As part of the ongoing response and in consultation with the Presbyteries of the Pacific, San Fernando, and San Gabriel, as well as the Synod of Southern California and Hawaii and its leadership, Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA) has been in communication with faith leaders in the affected communities. In addition to providing emotional and spiritual care, PDA has already released emergency grants to meet the urgent needs of the communities and to provide immediate assistance. Though the final outcomes of these fires are yet to be known, we are clear that the magnitude of the event will require the development of long-term projects and assistance, both for the physical and emotional long-lasting effects. Presbyterians in the region are participating in coordination calls with nonprofit and faith-based disaster organizations to ensure that no one is forgotten.
PDA affirms our commitment to accompany those affected by this disaster. As people of God, once again we are called to stand with our siblings in the “GAP” — Give, Act, and Pray.
GIVE:
Financial support for relief efforts is being coordinated by Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA). If you would like to contribute, you can give directly through PDA online. You can also write a check to IPC with “Wildfire Relief” in the memo line, and we will send it on. You can drop off checks at the church, place them in the offering plate during worship services, or mail to IPC at 3100 Highland Avenue S., Birmingham, AL 35205.
ACT:
IPC is providing financial assistance to PDA for disaster relief. The IPC Foundation has approved an emergency grant, and Community Ministries is sending Mission Support Funds.
PRAY:
God, our refuge and our strength, you are an ever-present help in trouble.
You see the devastation caused by the California wildfires. You hear the cries of those suffering loss. You know the fear and anxiety and exhaustion of those waiting, hoping and helping as they watch the fires burn.
For those forced to abandon their homes and shelters in search of safety, we pray for your guidance to find places of rest. For those called to fight the fires, we pray for your strength to persevere. For those ministering to the injured, we pray for your wisdom and guidance to heal. For those mourning loss, we pray for your comfort. For those accompanying others, near or far, we pray for your upholding. For those still in danger’s path, we pray for your protection.
Now and in the days and weeks to come, we trust that you are present. You have promised that even in the darkest of valleys, you will never leave nor forsake your children.
God, our refuge and our strength, you are an ever-present help in trouble. As your incarnate presence brought hope to those in need, may the Church, your body, be the presence of help and hope in Los Angeles County and beyond.
In the name of Christ Jesus,
Amen.
— Rev. Jihyun Oh, Stated Clerk of the General Assembly and Executive Director of the Interim Unified Agency
