Many of us are aware of the devastating fires that have struck the Los Angeles area and Southern California this week. Tens of thousands of acres burned; cities and neighborhoods leveled; lives lost and miles of decimation.  It is in these moments that Orthodox Christians need to demonstrate the spiritual fortitude given to them, by the Grace of God, to help all those in need.

First, I call upon the flock of the Western American Diocese to pray for an end to the suffering caused by the horrible infernos.  “It is vital to continue in prayer for as long as we can, so that His invincible strength may penetrate and enable us to resist every destructive influence” - St. Sophrony of Essex. 

Second, I call upon all of our flock to provide as much compassionate assistance as possible to those suffering from these fires. If possible our flock needs to: house those who need refuge; feed those who are hungry; clothe the destitute and give financial support to those organizations that directly help those afflicted by this devastation.  It is only through Faith, prayer and good works such cataclysmic events may be overcome.

May our Lord and Saviour show His mercy upon all those affected, and may our Lord graciously reward all those who show compassion to the afflicted!

+Archbishop Kyrill
10 January 2025

A printable version of the petitions may be found HERE.

A printable version of the prayer may be found HERE.