Southern California is in Need.
Help Send Wildfire Relief Now.

Southern California is facing multiple uncontrolled fires, exacerbated by strong winds and dry conditions. Tens of thousands of residents have been forced to evacuate and more than 57,000 homes are threatened.

At LNPC, we have the opportunity to contribute to Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, which is in communication with the affected presbyteries to offer resources in the aftermath of the fires. So far, we are aware of one Presbyterian church destroyed (Pacific Palisades Presbyterian Church) and several more are threatened. We will know more once the fires are contained and evacuation orders have been lifted. We pray for all lives affected, for swift containment and the safety of first responders.

"Our home is under evacuation warning. No electricity or internet. Prayers for our family and wisdom on how to support the churches in the presbytery are appreciated."

- Rev. Juan Sarmiento, executive presbyter of the Presbytery of San Fernando

"Multiple churches have been impacted and multiple Presbyterians have lost their homes... Pray for those who are in harm's way and the hundreds of firefighters who are risking their own well-being to keep people and property safe "

- Rev. Jim Kirk, Associate for National Disaster Response for Presbyterian Disaster Assistance 

"Because of the winds and the 100-mile-an-hour gusts and then windstorms that are created within the fires, there's just no way for firefighters to get the helicopters dropping the fire retardant, so firefighters are just on the streets trying to hose things, and it's not working"

- Rev. Heidi Worthen Gamble, a mission catalyst for the Presbytery of the Pacific

Let us pray

God who creates scenes of beauty and wonder,
We call upon your mercy and grace to protect the people,
the creatures, and all your creation
from the fires that rage in Southern California and beyond.
In the face of destruction, remind us that hope cannot be extinguished.
Surround the people, creatures, and creation with your grace and peace.
Comfort all who mourn the death of loved ones.
 
Stand with those who grieve the loss of beloved pets or dreams and hopes.
Hold close in your care those who are evacuating,
unsure of what awaits them. Accompany all who have been displaced,
and sustain those whose homes, businesses,
and communities have been consumed by flames.
Strengthen the firefighters, first responders,
and volunteers working tirelessly to control the fires.
 
Guide their efforts and grant them endurance and safety.
We ask that you also bless leaders in these impacted communities,
whose courage and compassion
are beacons of hope amidst the smoke and ashes.
Lead us to discern ways we can offer tangible help to those
affected—both in this moment of crisis and in the long
journey of recovery ahead.
 
Stir our hearts to action and
open our eyes to the deeper changes
we must embrace to reduce the risk of future fires.
Even when the skies are clouded with smoke,
may we trust that your light cannot be dimmed.
May your promise of renewal and restoration sustain us all.
In Christ, our forever hope, we pray. Amen.

-Rev. Mark Koenig via PCUSA.org