“In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ…” — I Peter 1:6 – 7
Beloved Brothers and Sisters in the Lord,
As we anxiously await these next few critical days as the Rough Fire burns furiously in Central California, we call to mind in fervent prayer our beloved Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center and the Monastery of the Theotokos the Life Giving Spring located in Dunlap, California. The intensity of this fire has consumed over 120,000 acres, and our property is now in its path. Thankfully our Ranch staff, Gerontissa Markella, the sisters and monastery chaplain Rev. Father John Angelis have been safely evacuated.
Prayer has proven time and again to be the most powerful way we can come together as Orthodox Christians to seek the help of God. Therefore, I am directing all the clergy in our Metropolis to include the following in this Sunday’s Divine Liturgy:
- 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 the safekeeping of the Monastery of the Theotokos the Life Giving Spring and Saint Nicholas Ranch, and for the protection of all those who are affected by this devastating fire, let us pray to the Lord. - Prior to the Apolysis, please also offer the following prayer during Divine Liturgy on Sunday, September 13, 2015:
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 the devastating Rough Fire in Central California. We ask that 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 this fire, 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 for our beloved Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center and the Monastery of the Theotokos the Life Giving Spring, keeping them safe from harm so that they may continue their work to glorify Your Holy Name. For You are a merciful and loving God, and to You we give the glory, to the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, now and forever, and to the ages of ages. Amen.
May the power of the Precious and Life Giving Cross strengthen us in our faith and provide for us comfort during times of great need.
With Love in Christ,
+ G E R A S I M O S
Metropolitan of San Francisco
Download PDF: Prayers for the Monastery and Saint Nicholas Ranch