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IMPORTANT UPDATE FROM THE COMMISSION

Dear Episcopal Leaders in the Diocese of Los Angeles,


It has been a heartbreaking 48 hours in Southern California, including within our Episcopal community. I want to take a moment to share an update on the impact of the Palisades and Eaton Fires.


Our thoughts and prayers are with all those impacted by the fires. We remain committed to supporting our Episcopal school communities during this difficult time.


The Reverend Ryan D. Newman, Ed.D.

Executive Director, Commission on Schools

St. Matthew’s Parish School (Pacific Palisades)



When the Palisades fire erupted on Tuesday late morning, St. Matthew’s was forced to quickly evacuate as the fire rapidly approached. Alley Michaelson (Head of School) and her team did an extraordinary job safely evacuating all students and staff. St. Matthew’s avoided significant damage during the initial firestorm, but both rectories (clergy housing) were destroyed.


Unfortunately, on Wednesday afternoon, as numerous spot fires flared up in Pacific Palisades, we received reports of fire activity on the St. Matthew’s campus. Buildings housing the library, early childhood center, elementary school, and middle school were reported to have active fires. We fear that much of the St. Matthew’s campus may have sustained significant, if not catastrophic, damage.


Due to current conditions in the area, school leaders have not yet been able to assess the full extent of the damage. As of the latest report, both the church and Founder’s Hall remain safe. Also, many members of the St. community lost their homes in the Palisades fire.

In her letter to the St. Matthew’s community, Mrs. Michaelson wrote,

“We are not going anywhere. We are one community, Parish and School, and we will stay that way – we will educate the children of St. Matthew’s. St. Matthew’s lives in all of our hearts. We will rebuild our campus to be as strong as our community.”

Saint Mark's School (Altadena)

On Wednesday morning, St. Mark’s Church shared that the church building had been destroyed overnight by the Eaton Fire. Later in the day, we confirmed that Saint Mark’s School suffered catastrophic fire damage. The fire that swept through Altadena and Pasadena impacted many school and church families, including Jenn Tolbert, Head of School, losing her home to the firestorm.

Photo Credit: Anthony James (via St. Mark's Facebook Page)

The Gooden School (Sierra Madre)

At this time, The Gooden School remains untouched. Unfortunately, some families and staff members lost their homes in the Eaton Fire.

Other Episcopal schools in the Los Angeles area have shared that they have families directly impacted by the fires.

How can we help?

I have fielded numerous inquiries about helping the impacted schools and churches. First and foremost, we appreciate your willingness to help. These communities will need our help in the coming days, weeks, and months. Right now, it is too early to know their exact needs. When we have more information, I will share it. Please continue to pray for everyone impacted by these fires and the brave first responders.



Financial contributions can be made to the diocesan “One Body, One Spirit Annual Appeal." Until further notice, the Diocese will earmark every dollar you give to an institution or person affected by the wildfires. Also financial support can be given through the Episcopal Relief and Development, The Episcopal Church’s disaster relief agency.

Resources

The immediate risk of fires in Southern California is high, especially with another round of Santa Ana Winds expected next week. This is an excellent opportunity for school leaders to review their emergency procedures. Below are some resources that you might find helpful: