Dear Friends in Christ,

I am writing to you today with a heavy heart, as our community faces the devastating effects of the recent wildfires in the greater Los Angeles area. The news of the destruction and loss is overwhelming, and it is important that we come together in prayer and action to support one another.

The wildfires, fueled by dry conditions and powerful winds, have caused unprecedented scenes, burning through more than 19,900 acres. The Palisades Fire has destroyed an estimated 5,000 structures. Firefighters are working hard to put out the Eaton Fire and have made some progress. However, the fire has already damaged or destroyed too many homes and buildings in Pasadena, Altadena, and Sierra Madre. We have also seen the emergence of new fires such as the Kenneth Fire, which prompted further evacuations. These fires have resulted in at least ten deaths, and sadly, the total number of deaths remains unknown. The scale of the destruction is immense, and the impact on our communities is profound.

Our hearts ache for those who have been directly impacted. We know that the buildings for Altadena UMC and Community UMC of Pacific Palisades were both lost to fires. Rev. John Shaver of Community UMC of Pacific Palisades lost his home, as did Rev. Paige Eaves in the Eaton fire in Altadena. We also know that too many others in our congregations and communities have lost their homes. Our prayers are with all who are mourning these losses and facing such difficult times.

We also want to remember the communities of Hollywod UMC Hollywod Campus, Sierra Madre UMC, La Cañada UMC, First UMC Santa Monica, Church of the Good Shepherd and others who experienced evacuations and may not know when they will return home or have power. We lift up the congregation of Church of the Foothills in Duarte and other churches that sustained damage from high winds this week.

In times of crisis, we are called to be the hands and feet of Christ, and we are given ways to respond. Here are some ways you can help:

● Clothing & Water-Drive: Please bring clothing, shoes, bottled water, and masks to the church on Sunday. We will collect these items and take them directly to the people who have been evacuated and need our help.

● Monetary Donations: You can contribute to the Los Angeles Fires Recovery Fund to directly support relief and recovery efforts. Donations can be made online at www.calpacumc.org/donate. Bring your donation to the church on Sunday and mark it as "Love Offering to Help Fire Victims" on memo.

● Prayer: Let's come together in prayer during this difficult time. As people of faith, we can make a difference by praying to God for those who have been hurt by the wildfires. Please pray constantly for their well-being and for everyone affected by this crisis.

Let us hold fast to our faith and trust in God’s unwavering love during this time. I encourage you to continue to pray for those affected, those working tirelessly to fight the fires, and for peace and healing for our communities.

Please be safe and see you all on Sunday!

With love and prayers,

Pastor Sang Ho Yi