Thoughts & Prayers for Those Affected by the LA Wildfires

On the heels of celebrations of the holidays and the welcoming of a new year, we are shocked to learn of massive fires that began yesterday in Los Angeles County, and continue to devastate homes, businesses and natural habitats. The fires have prompted multiple evacuation orders and warnings and have resulted in the destruction of more than 1,000 structures, evacuation of tens of thousands and at least two deaths. At this time, the fires continue to rage, especially due to the powerful seasonal Santa Ana winds that are fanning the flames to grow at an incomprehensible pace.

The people of Los Angeles County and its surrounding areas are in our hearts and prayers today. Los Angeles and its suburbs are home to Gonzaga students, alumni and friends, and many within our community have loved ones that are being directly affected by this catastrophic situation. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of those directly impacted as well as the first responders that are working tirelessly to protect and provide life-saving measures for local citizens.

During these kinds of unimaginable circumstances, it is important to remember that there are resources available for all of those in need of support and care. We encourage any students and employees that have been directly impacted to please reach out via Gonzaga’s Care and Support Resources so that we can determine what kind of support might be provided to you.

This is a developing situation which first responders will continue to struggle. As evacuation and rescue efforts continue, I ask that you please keep these communities, responders, and all those who have been impacted in your thoughts and prayers for safety, support, and healing.

Be gracious to me, O God, be gracious to me, For my soul takes refuge in You; And in the shadow of Your wings I will take refuge Until destruction passes by.