Elizabeth Eaton, presiding bishop of the ELCA, has issued a message on the deadly wildfires currently burning across the Los Angeles area. “The images of leaping flames, smoke-choked skies, and the wreckage of homes and habitats in and around Los Angeles are hard to bear,” the message read, in part. “The ongoing, deadly California wildfires have claimed lives, displaced hundreds of thousands of people, and destroyed homes, businesses, schools and houses of worship.”
The message continued: “The devastation continues as winds spread the flames. So far we know that Bishop Brenda Bos of the Southwest California Synod and her wife, Janis, lost their home in the Eaton fire. We believe that the fires have touched the lives of many more ELCA members and several congregations as the synod continues to receive damage reports and assess the immediate needs for support.
“The prophet Isaiah writes that even when fires rage, the final word is faith, not fear. God redeems us and calls us by name to be agents of healing and hope, even amid staggering loss. In faith, we respond through prayer, accompaniment and action.
“Please join me in praying that God’s love and care be manifest among all who are impacted by these wildfires. Pray for the firefighters battling unrelenting blazes and for first responders, health care providers and public servants providing safety and support for those impacted. Pray for ELCA ministries as they care for the many needs of their communities. Pray for the long-term well-being of all who are affected by the widespread devastation and who face ongoing danger.”
In the message, Eaton invited readers to learn how the ELCA is responding and how they can get involved.
