A Word from Mike McClenahan
Friends,
Watching the news of the fires in LA is heartbreaking. The destruction will be greater than anyone can imagine. Everyone knows someone who has lost everything.
And like the pandemic, churches and leaders are grieving and living with trauma while leading and providing care for others.
Let’s respond with empathy and prayer for those who have lost everything, are displaced and have a tremendous journey of rebuilding; for the containment of the fires and the safety of first responders; for churches that have lost their buildings and members who have lost homes; for churches that have become relief distribution centers and for seven pastors in the San Gabriel Presbytery alone who lost their homes; for the 1000 closed public schools (9% of California students) and the children who are dealing with trauma, fear and loss; and for the light of Christ to shine brightly in all these places in surprising ways. And let’s respond generously. Check out relief efforts as they emerge. Presbyterian Disaster Assistance is helping churches in all of the presbyteries affected by the wildfires in California. You can give here. We are in contact with our regional network in LA and will update the larger TFC family with specific ways to pray and give.
Amy and I grew up in Glendale, and it will be our home again in retirement. We have always loved driving through neighborhoods now decimated. Tucked in behind the traffic and craziness of LA are tight knit and historic neighborhoods now destroyed. All of our family who live in the area are currently safe, but the fire danger remains high.
Pastor Greg Hughes in Lake Tahoe (formerly in Malibu) posted this prayer on Facebook:
Gracious God,
We come to You with heavy hearts, seeking Your comfort and guidance. We pray for the families who have lost their homes and their sense of security. Grant them the strength to face these challenges, the courage to rebuild, and the hope to find light in the darkest of times. May Your love surround them, offering solace and peace amidst the chaos.
We ask for Your blessings upon the firefighters, volunteers, and first responders who have bravely battled the flames to protect our communities. Grant them safety and resilience as they continue their noble work. May they feel our gratitude and support in every step they take.
For those who have been displaced, we pray for swift and effective assistance. May they find shelter, comfort, and a sense of belonging as they navigate this difficult journey. Surround them with a network of caring individuals who can offer a helping hand and a listening ear.
Lord, we also pray for the healing of the land. The beauty of Pacific Palisades and Malibu, with its rolling hills, pristine beaches, and vibrant nature, is a testament to Your creation. We ask for Your grace to restore and renew these landscapes, bringing back the flora and fauna that have been affected by the fires.
In the face of this tragedy, let us reach out to one another with kindness and generosity, offering our support in any way we can. Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply being there to listen and comfort, let us demonstrate the true spirit of unity and love.
May we find solace in the memories we have created and the bonds we have formed. Let these ties be a source of strength, knowing that together we can overcome any adversity.
In Your name, we pray. Amen.
Lord, have mercy. | 
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