Beloved in the Lord,
Fire season has descended upon the west coast, and this year California is already being significantly affected by over 350 fires that are engulfing nearly every region in the state. While the fall months tend to bring more fires due to dry brush, an extraordinary number of lightning strikes have contributed to these early fires, many which have very little containment.
None of our church properties are presently in danger, but we are aware of several parishioners who have been evacuated. We also know that one family with two young children who attend Saint John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA lost their home and all their belongings in the River Fire near Monterey, CA.
Sadly, this is just the beginning of the fire season and we are already witnessing such significant devastation. It is important for everyone to heed the warnings of the officials in their respective areas and seek safety and shelter when directed by the authorities. Every life is precious in the eyes of the Lord, and no physical possession is worth risking one’s life.
We know that prayer is powerful and that each supplication is heard by the Lord. Therefore, I am asking all parishes in the Metropolis offer a special petition and prayer each Sunday as follows:
- During the Great Litany, all priests are asked to please add the following petition after “For our deliverance from all affliction, wrath, danger, and distress, let us pray to the Lord.”:
“For a rapid end to the fires, for comfort to the victims and their families, eternal rest to those who have perished, and strength to the firefighters and those who bring aid and relief, let us pray to the Lord.” - Prior to the Apolysis, please also offer the following prayer during Divine Liturgy:
Let us pray to the Lord. Lord, have mercy.O Lord Our God, Whose peace surpasses all understanding and Whose grace and mercy abound, send down your Holy Spirit to comfort those who are suffering in mind, body and spirit as a result of these devastating fires. We ask You stretch forth Your mighty hand during this time of uncertainty, steadying us by Your love, compassion and peace. Grant strength to those who are fighting these fires, calm the winds, and open the heavens so that rain may pour forth and cease further destruction. We especially ask for Your blessings and protection upon all those who have fled their homes, that they may be spared injury, and that their homes may be preserved. May You also grant peaceful repose to those whose lives have been lost, as well as comfort to those who are grieving. For You are a merciful and loving God, and to You we give Glory, to the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, now and forever, and to the ages of ages. Amen.
Let us come together as a Metropolis in prayer and spirit, offering our support and love to all those who are affected by these fires, that they may be delivered from all danger and have their homes and lives restored.
With Love in Christ,
+ G E R A S I M O S
Metropolitan of San Francisco