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Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
The recent wildfires across western North Carolina remind us that while we have no control over natural disasters, we can control our response. Some of the most powerful tools we have are prayer and loving care.
That is why I am calling on each of you to join in prayer, and to offer loving care for your neighbors in any way that you can.
For those who remain in the path of danger, please remember to stay alert. Pack a go-bag, including important medicines and documents, and put that in your vehicle. Pack one for your pets as well. Include some water bottles. Fuel your vehicle. Put some face masks close to your steering wheel in case you encounter smoke.
Our Disaster Response and Recovery Team is actively working to respond. If you, your parish, or community need resources or have questions please contact Rev. Kelsey Davis at 828-820-0487 or by email at responseteam@diocesewnc.org.
Please continue to listen to the emergency updates and adhere to evacuations orders from your local county through their website and text alerts. Read this Wildfire Evacuation Checklist from Henderson County Fire Department to prepare yourself and share with others.
Your acts of kindness, your willingness to help your neighbors, and your commitment to live out the love of Christ in this moment brings hope in the midst of suffering.
Again, in times like these, I’m confident the strength and perseverance that have long defined the Diocese of Western North Carolina will shine through, and we are already coming together to meet this challenge with our steadfast Appalachian spirit. Let us continue walking in the way of Jesus.
A Prayer For Those In the Path of Fires
Almighty God, who is our strength and our refuge; be with those who are besieged by fire, guide those who evacuate so that they may find care and comfort in a safe place; protect their homes and their pets, their neighbors and their friends, so that they may return home to a loving community. We ask this in the name of Jesus your son, who abides with you and with the Holy Spirit. Amen.
A Prayer For Those Who Minister In Time of Wildfire
Loving and merciful God, wherever we go, you are there with us; strengthen those who serve in the time of wildfire; buoy their spirit as they encounter despair; strengthen them as they comfort the displaced; and guide them as they guide others to safety and security. We ask this in the name of Jesus who is our strength and our safe place. Amen.
Faithfully,
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