Church prays for all victims and survivors of California wildfires

California wildfire 2008 BLM Wiki image

Source: USCCB/VIS

Prayers are being said around the world for all those affected by the huge wildfires sweeping through northern California. More than 20 thousand people have been displaced by 21 fires. Their homes and businesses have been destroyed or badly damaged.

More than 30 are known to have died and as many as 400 people remain missing amid the chaos of displacement and the ongoing battle to bring the blazes under control.

Pope Francis sent a message on Friday, expressing his condolences to the families of victims, and promising prayers for all those affected. Signed by the Secretary of State of the Holy See, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, and jointly addressed to the Archbishop of San Francisco, Salvatore Cordileone, and Archbishop José Gomez of Los Angeles, the telegram promises Pope Francis' prayerful solidarity with everyone affected by the fires.

It goes on to say Pope Francis is especially mindful of those who mourn the loss of their loved ones and who fear for the lives of those still missing, and offers Pope Francis' encouragement to civil authorities and emergency workers.

Bishop Frank J Dewane of Venice, Florida, Chairman of the US Conference of Catholic Bishops' (USCCB) Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development, asked for prayers for favourable weather and assistance for all those impacted by the devastating fires.

Bishop Dewane's full statement follows:

"Do not fear: I am with you;
do not be anxious: I am your God.
I will strengthen you, I will help you,
I will uphold you with my victorious right hand."
– Isaiah 41:10

Today we ask for the intercession of Almighty God as wildfires rage in Northern California. Already, these blazes have killed over 20 people, destroyed hundreds of houses and other buildings, and forced thousands of individuals to leave their homes and livelihoods behind in uncertainty. High winds and dry conditions have greatly increased the danger for the people in this region.

As brave men and women respond to these disasters, battling the fires and helping people to safety, we call upon God for improved weather, for the blessing of rain and favorable winds, to assist them. We pray that those who are missing or are still in harm's way will be found and protected. May God grant eternal rest to those who have died, and bring them into glory with him forever.

We pray, too, for generosity, care, and concern from neighbors and surrounding communities for those who are grieving and displaced. Though we may be weary from all that has taken place around the country in recent days, we know that God cannot be outdone in generosity and charity. May he provide us with new wellsprings of love to meet the needs of our brothers and sisters who are hurting so deeply today.