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Today is the second anniversary of the deadly Maui wildfires that forever changed the face of the island and the lives of all who live there. Thousands with connections to the Valley Isle continue to mourn the loss of life and treasured memories of Lahaina, a vibrant town with great historical significance. While progress is being made, it has been slow and painstaking as officials and residents contend with various issues during unprecedented times. Members from our own Holy Innocents Episcopal Church that was destroyed in the fire, are moving forward while facing continuing changes and challenges.
Like last year's first anniversary commemoration (pictured above), a paddle out is being planned on this day at Hanaka‘ō‘ō Beach Park, followed by memorial events at different sites. We ask for continued prayers for the people of Maui and for all those still suffering incomprehensible loss and grief. We share prayers from Episcopal Relief & Development's Pray webpage that can be found HERE.
Be with us, O God, as we grieve those who have died. Hold tight to the souls of those we have lost. Be with all those who loved and knew them; calm their minds, soothe their hearts, and strengthen them for the struggles ahead. We ask this in the name of Jesus, our model of selfless and life-giving love. – The Episcopal Diocese of Spokane
Loving God, our strength in times of despair, be with all those who have lost their homes to wildfire, comfort them in their distress, strengthen them for the journey ahead, and sustain them with your loving embrace, that they may find a sense of home once again. We ask this in the name of your son Jesus Christ, who heals the sick and restores the lost. – The Episcopal Diocese of Utah
O God, our refuge and strength,
our help in times of trouble.
Have mercy on the lands
damaged by fires.
Have mercy on the lands
where the weather has destroyed livelihoods.
Protect those who evacuate houses,
and strengthen those who rebuild hope
so that entire communities
may face the future without fear.
Amen.- Prayer for Those Facing Wildfires, from Episcopal Relief & Development
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