Here, we share a response and prayer for those impacted by the devastating fires in Los Angeles. Join us in lifting up the first responders, those who have suffered loss, and the community as they navigate this challenging time, praying that God’s grace and provision will be evident in the midst of darkness.
We have been touched by so many in our CFWLA community and national faith and work network leaders from around the country who have reached out to us with concerns, prayers and support given the ongoing fire devastation plaguing LA. We are sorry if we've not replied to all of you with news or updates.
All of us on staff are safe and not in the directly affected areas, yet everyone of us has friends or family members directly affected. One of our recent board members and his wife, who is a commissioned Framework Fellow, just lost their home in the Pacific Palisades fire and we are waiting to hear of news from many others who we expect were also directly impacted.
We desperately need to see God at work in the midst of such darkness. Fred Rogers once responded that the best place to look in the face of similar disasters is to "look for the helpers." Los Angeles is blessed with the amazing work of caring first responders, citizens, and resources. Even in our recent board member's loss we heard that "a security guard rescued their cats, he went four different times to get them and rescued them on the last attempt. As well, the firemen who tried to save their house went in and grabbed a few items like diplomas, family pictures and put them in the front yard for them to have." God's grace is real even when it comes in small but precious acts of kindness.
CFWLA's primary sponsoring church, Pacific Crossroads Church in Santa Monica has a significant community of impacted congregants who we know and has set up giving through their Hope for LA ministry. All donations over the near term will go to aid to those with significant losses and needs from the fires.
One of our recent board member’s house impacted by the Palisades Fire
Prayers of the People
Heavenly Father, we lift up those who are tirelessly laboring to extinguish the fires. Grant strength, endurance, and protection to the first responders, firefighters, and all who are courageously working to safeguard lives and property.
Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayer.
We pray for those enduring the unimaginable loss of loved ones. May they feel the peace that surpasses all understanding and the comforting presence of the Holy Spirit in their grief.
Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayer.
We lift up those who have lost their homes and find themselves displaced, mourning the loss of their neighborhoods. We pray for business owners and workers facing uncertainty and loss in their vocations. Father, provide them with abundant resources, steadfast hope, and the support of a caring community.
Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayer.
We ask for favorable weather conditions to aid in extinguishing the fires. Calm the winds, bring healing rains to cleanse the scorched land, and protect against landslides that could cause further harm.
Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayer.
We pray for wisdom and discernment for local and state officials as they navigate critical decisions that affect the people of Los Angeles. Guide them to act with clarity, compassion, and selflessness.
Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayer.
Amen.
Steve is the Executive Director here at the Center for Faith + Work Los Angeles and leads the vision and overall ministry. Prior to this position, Steve was as an aerospace executive at The Boeing Company after 36 years of service.