Ray Van Gilst, Central Pacific District superintendent, writes:
As you may be aware, the fires in Sonoma County, California, have greatly impacted our C&MA leaders and churches. We reported to you yesterday that Jon and Rachael Maves of Alliance Redwoods and pastor of City Alliance Church in Santa Rosa lost their home in the fires. We found out later in the day that Billy and Elissa Andre, pastoral couple of The Bridge in Santa Rosa, also lost their home. Many of our church families in Santa Rosa have lost their homes as well and will need immediate help.
Jim Blake has opened up Alliance Redwoods for housing for many who are in immediate need, for which we are very grateful—thank you, Jim and staff!
The biggest need right now is prayer and immediate cash to purchase basics for surviving in the interim. You can donate by sending checks to the Central Pacific District at 715 Lincoln Ave., Woodland, CA 95695. Please add “Santa Rosa Fire” to the memo section.
District leaders have asked the Alliance family to pray:
- for the lead pastors and the attendees of our four Alliance churches who have lost homes. Church leaders have been hit particularly hard. Pray for the power to serve others and wisdom to lead and comfort while grieving their own losses.
- for those who remain in harm’s way
- for safe breathing. There may be toxic elements in the surrounding smoke.
- that people will grieve in a healthy way. “Blessed are those who mourn for they will be comforted.”
- for God’s peace to envelope the many people suffering immense stress and trauma