Dear Ward Family,
I know many of you have been wondering how we can help those impacted by the fires. I, too, have wondered what we could do. We often see immediate help and relief efforts after hurricanes and floods; however, unfortunately with some of the side effects of these fires, their continued spread, and high winds expected in the forecast our opportunities are somewhat restrained by the nature of the disaster and particularly in the short term.
As a full-time missionary, I served in the same district with an Elder who now serves as the Bishop of the Santa Monica Ward. I reached out to him a couple nights ago and his response to me was very appreciative and similar to that of his Stake President of the Los Angeles Stake to surrounding stakes. President Barton forwarded the Bishops and Stake Council of our Stake a couple e-mails from the Los Angeles Stake Presidency. I wanted to share some excerpts from the Los Angeles Stake President's e-mails (in italics, below), and invite you to consider the "Current Needs and How to Help" and to consider joining in the "Special Stake Fast" for all impacted, including the Pasadena Ward/Stake that has been similarly and significantly impacted and others. Our Stake is also considering this further and may share something with I or the Stake further in the coming days.
Thank you for your incredibly kind offer of support ... The outpouring of love and concern from our neighboring stakes has been deeply touching and a testament to the bonds that unite us as disciples of Christ.
I'm grateful to report that all of our stake members and missionaries are currently safe, and their immediate needs are being met. While dozens of our members have lost their homes, we have been able to arrange temporary accommodations for everyone affected. Our primary challenge now is finding local long-term affordable housing solutions for these families.
Regarding cleanup efforts, specifically in the Pacific Palisades area, these will likely not begin for some time. Due to hazardous materials in the burn areas, volunteers might not be permitted to assist with the cleanup process. However, we will absolutely keep you informed of any and all opportunities where volunteer assistance is safe to do so...
Excerpts from an update sent to members of the Los Angeles Stake yesterday morning (Friday, January 10):
In what can only be described as miraculous, the Pacific Palisades chapel has survived unscathed, despite fires burning all around the property. We see this as a beacon of hope for the future recovery and renewal of the Pacific Palisades community in the years ahead. We are working to provide access to our chapels to our interfaith congregations who have lost their places of worship.
The outpouring of love and support from across the country has been extraordinary. ... The Church is actively working with local civic, community, and faith organizations to provide aid, and our bishops have resources available to assist individual members in need.
Current Needs and How to Help:
- Our greatest current need is affordable local medium to long-term housing for members who have lost their homes. ...
- If you would like to support the Church's relief efforts, we invite you to donate to the Church Humanitarian Fund and give a generous Fast Offering. ...
We invite all members of our stake to participate in a special fast this Sunday, January 12. We will fast:
- To seek heaven's help for our community
- To pray for comfort and blessings for those affected by the fires
- To express gratitude for the protection of our members and missionaries ...
Whether it be fires, earthquakes, pestilence, or other calamities, we are united in Christ in support of each other and as we strive to uplift and strengthen our community. God bless and be with you.
Sincerely,
Bishop Aina
_________
Following is the Los Angeles Stake Email for your information:
Los Angeles California Stake
Dear
Los Angeles Stake Family,
My heart is full of gratitude as I write to you today. In the midst of recent challenges, we have witnessed countless miracles and seen the Lord's hand guiding and protecting His children. Through your faith, prayers, and service, we have experienced the profound truth that in times of trial, our community grows stronger.
I am overjoyed to report that all of our members and missionaries continue to be safe, and their immediate needs are being met. While many of our families have been displaced by the fires, we have witnessed remarkable manifestations of Christ-like love as temporary accommodations have been provided for everyone affected. The way our community has come together to support one another is truly inspiring. Our current most pressing need is finding local long-term affordable housing solutions for displaced families. If you become aware of any such opportunities, please share this information with President Smiley (801-503-5111).
To our beloved Pacific Palisades Ward members: our hearts overflow with love for you during this challenging time. You are not alone in this journey of recovery and rebuilding. As your stake family, we stand firmly beside you and commit to supporting you in the months and years ahead. Your faith, resilience, and strength inspire us all.
We have been deeply touched by the outpouring of love and support from neighboring stakes and our interfaith partners. We are making our church buildings available to our interfaith friends who lost their places of worship. These moments of interfaith cooperation remind us that we are all God's children.
Many have asked about cleanup efforts in certain areas, such as Pacific Palisades. The area is currently restricted due to hazardous conditions. However, there are numerous ways to help our broader Los Angeles community. The Lord has blessed us to be in a position to provide Christ-like service to our brothers and sisters in Los Angeles. We encourage everyone who is able, to be anxiously engaged in a good cause and seek opportunities to serve and contribute. Below are some current opportunities to make a difference, though this list is not comprehensive:
Community Volunteer Opportunities:
LA Food Bank Support Options:
Food Donations: Drop off nonperishable food items at:
1734 East 41st Street, Los Angeles, CA 90058
2300 Pellissier Place, Industry, CA 90601
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-5:00 PM
For those asking how to help with church efforts, here are the most effective ways to support right now:
Sharing information about available affordable long-term housing in the Los Angeles area
Monetary donations through the Church Humanitarian Fund
Giving generous Fast Offerings
Participating in our special stake fast this Sunday, January 12
Continuing prayers for those affected and for the ongoing recovery efforts
As we move forward together, we do so with faith and optimism. Each day brings new opportunities to serve and lift one another, and I am consistently amazed by your willingness to help wherever needed. Your continued prayers and support are making a real difference in the lives of those affected by these challenges.
If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to your ward leadership or the stake presidency. Remember, the Lord is mindful of His children, and through unity and faith, we will continue to witness His miracles.
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