The wildfires in California continue to threaten homes and businesses. More than 30 families from three Alliance churches in Santa Rosa (The Bridge, Mark West Neighborhood Church, and Santa Rosa Alliance Church) have lost their homes. Four Alliance pastors’ homes were also destroyed, and another pastor’s residence is in immediate danger.
On the way to the neighborhood of Billy Andre, pastor of The Bridge, Central Pacific District Superintendent Ray Van Gilst witnessed the devastation caused by the raging flames. He reported, “We heard story after story of near escapes because they woke up to propane tanks exploding or gale force winds and flaming ashes hitting the house.”
The Andres along with the Maves, the pastoral couple from City Alliance Church, did not have time to gather any of their personal belongings before having to flee their homes. Tragically, they lost everything, including their vehicles. As Ray presented both couples with some of the funds raised through the Central Pacific District, they wept together, thanking God for His provision through the Alliance family.
Churches and Camp Step In
Alliance churches and ministries are opening their doors to those who have been evacuated. About 100 people are staying in Santa Rosa Alliance Church. Members of The Bridge handed out donated clothes and set up cots in their sanctuary to house evacuees.
The Alliance Redwoods Conference Grounds is also helping those affected. Jim Blake, the camp’s executive director, writes:
Here at Alliance Redwoods we are not threatened directly by the fires that are sweeping through the Santa Rosa area, but the impact is profound nonetheless. We have families who work here who have already lost homes and more that are threatened.
In terms of our response and plans, for now we are adjusting conferences at the camp and have shut down all operations at Sonoma Canopy Tours so that we can focus on helping to care for families who have lost everything. We currently have 10 families we are housing and feeding; but we have a long way to go as the fire is still raging. We also have the privilege of housing and feeding over 200 firefighters as they battle the blaze.
We appreciate your prayers for all the families who are part of the Central Pacific District and for the entire Santa Rosa community. Please pray with us specifically,
- that the winds would remain calm, allowing firefighters to begin containing the blaze;
- for the safety of our citizens and for wisdom for people to evacuate when they need to;
- for our staff to have opportunities to show extraordinary compassion, the very face of Jesus, to all whom we serve during this time;
- for rain—That would indeed be a miracle!
Those wishing to help financially can do so by sending checks to the Central Pacific District at 715 Lincoln Ave., Woodland, CA 95695. Please designate checks to “Santa Rosa Fire.”