The Los Angeles area is grappling with an unprecedented outbreak of fires and heavy winds that have wreaked havoc on communities and created dangerous, unpredictable conditions. Overnight, fires in Pasadena, the Palisades, and Sylmar exploded from hundreds to thousands of acres, fueled by wind gusts of up to 80 mph (129 km/h). With firefighting resources stretched thin and air support grounded by the high winds, entire neighborhoods have been devastated, and the fires continue to grow.
We are deeply grateful for the prayers, messages, and offers of support from our brothers and sisters around the world during this challenging time.
Impact on our church family
In the Lifeway Region, encompassing Pasadena and its surrounding areas, the Eaton Fire has caused widespread displacement. As of Wednesday, January 8, dozens of disciples have received mandatory evacuation orders, fleeing their homes in the early hours of the morning. Affected communities include La Cañada, Altadena, North Glendale, Pasadena, Arcadia, and Sierra Madre.
Tragically, four homes belonging to church members have been completely destroyed, including the lifelong home of an elderly sister and the childhood home of one family. Many more homes remain at very high risk, while some members are still without power. Despite these hardships, we are grateful to report that all disciples are accounted for, and those displaced are being cared for by fellow disciples or family members.
In the Westside Region, along the coast, which has faced some of the most dramatic scenes shown on the news, one family lost the building housing their business, their sole source of income.
A rapidly evolving situation
The high winds and advancing fires create a surreal and tense atmosphere, with ash and smoke blanketing the city. We continue to hear of additional evacuations among our church members, and our hearts go out to everyone affected.
In the face of these challenges, we are inspired by the resilience and generosity of our church family. Many disciples have opened their homes to host those displaced by the fires and are actively reaching out to assist their neighbors. Our local HOPEww chapters are mobilizing to assess the broader needs of the community and determine how we can provide meaningful support.
How you can help
Thank you for your love, prayers, and willingness to stand with us during this crisis. For those who feel moved to help financially, the L.A. Church has set up a secure giving link to support individuals and families who have suffered losses due to the fires. Your contributions will directly aid those in need: https://ppay.co/G-C50XRVfNo.
We are also grateful for HOPE worldwide’s Disaster Relief team that is working alongside the L.A. Church affected ministries and deploying resources from corporate and community partners to bring tangible relief to these families in crisis. To help fund these coordinated efforts, please donate here: www.hopeww.org/disaster.
Together, as a global fellowship, we can bring hope and healing to those affected by this disaster. Thank you for being a shining light in the darkness.
