Update on wildfires in Southern California

Thank you people of the Pacific Southwest District for your continued prayers on behalf of our brothers and sisters affected by the Southern California wildfires. Following is an update based on information we have received as of this point.

Red Cross shelters available

If you or someone you know is in need of shelter due to the fires, the latest list of available Red Cross Shelters is available at this link. Shelters available at the time of publication are:

Ritchie Valens Recreation Center

10736 Laurel Canyon Blvd

Pacoima, CA 91331


El Camino Real Charter High School

5440 Valley Circle Blvd

Woodland Hills, CA 91367


Northridge Recreation Center

18300 Lemarsh St.

Northridge, CA 91324


Westwood Recreation Center

1350 S Sepulveda Blvd

Los Angeles, CA 90025

Dream Center

2301 Bellevue Ave

Los Angeles, CA 90026


Pasadena Civic Auditorium

300 East Green Street

Pasadena, CA 91101


All Saints Episcopal Church

132 N Euclid Avenue

Pasadena, CA 91101


Glendale Civic Center

613 E Broadway

Glendale, CA 91206

Reports on affected churches and schools


Palisades Lutheran Church - Pacific Palisades, CA

Homes of four members have been destroyed, including that of retired Pastor RZ Meyer. Church still standing. Prayerfully considering options for worship this Sunday. Pastor and family safe.


Pilgrim Lutheran Church/Pacifica Christian High School - Santa Monica, CA

Some members evacuated. Some Pacifica student families have lost homes.


Trinity Lutheran - Simi Valley, CA

In "the eye of the storm" with lots of wind but no smoke or fire.


Historic First Lutheran - Pasadena, CA

Some members evacuated, with one confirmed member who lost their home, anticipating there will be others. Members spread across hotels across the southland. Downtown Pasadena (the church) under evac warning.


Mt. Olive Lutheran - Pasadena, CA

Evacuation of some members, including pastor and family, along with his parents. Planning online services for this weekend. 


Gethsemane Lutheran - La Crescenta, CA

Members are currently safe and secure, and the church property remains undamaged.


Emmaus Lutheran School - Alhambra, CA

School was cancelled today. One preschool teacher had to evacuate but no one else.


Our Savior Lutheran - Arcadia, CA

Faring well. Families without power with some evacuated. Congregational vice president is waiting to hear if they lost their home (young family of 5). Planning to have regular Sunday services for now.

We continue to pray together:


“Surely God is my salvation;  I will trust and will not be afraid, for the Lord is my strength and my might; he has become my salvation.” Isaiah 12:2


Gracious and merciful Father,


We come to you by the leading of your Holy Spirit and in the Name of Jesus Christ our Savior to ask Your help in our time of need. You, Lord God, are our refuge and strength, a very present help in times of trouble. Today, we cry out to You for all who are impacted by the wildfires in Los Angeles and beyond.


We pray for those who have lost homes, livelihoods, or loved ones. Comfort them with the peace that surpasses all understanding. Assure them of Your presence and provide for their every need through the kindness of neighbors, the compassion of strangers, and the generosity of Your people.


We lift before You the firefighters, first responders, and all who work tirelessly to protect life and property. Grant them courage, wisdom, and strength as they face the flames. Shield them with Your mighty hand and guide them in their efforts.


For your Church, Lord, empower us to be agents of Your love and care, bearing witness to the Gospel in our service to those affected. As a people saved from disaster through the gracious gift of the cross of your Son, help us to take the forgiveness and life we have received into the lives of those in harm’s way.


Finally, Lord, we ask for favorable weather conditions—calming winds, and rain without destruction—to aid in quelling the fires. May all your provisions in this time of disaster be a reminder us of Your promise to bring beauty from ashes and hope from despair.


Lord, have mercy. Christ, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.


We entrust this prayer to You by your Spirit and in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.

Donate to Emergency Relief

In Christ,

Rev. Dr. Mike Gibson

PSD President

 

mike.gibson@psd-lcms.org

www.psd-lcms.org

 

16355 Laguna Cayon Rd. #300

Irvine, California 92618

949-854-3232