Fires in Southern Oregon Plea

Without doubt, many of you have heard about the devastating fires currently ravaging the communities of Southern Oregon. The most destructive of these has been the Alameda fire which started yesterday, September 8, right after we had finished the Divine Liturgy for the feast of the Nativity of the Mother of God. Countless homes and businesses have been lost, and the fires continue to burn, with new ones popping up as soon as others seem to quiet down. Strong winds and extremely dry conditions are making the work extremely difficult and dangerous for fire fighters, paramedics, and law enforcement officers.

Your prayers for Ashland, Talent, Phoenix, Medford, and the whole Rogue Valley is greatly sought after! I am writing this update from our deacon’s house, as my family and I have had to evacuate our home. As of right now, as far as we can know, we are fortunate enough to still have our home standing. Several of our parishioners have not been so fortunate, but we are grateful that all have made it out alive! Neighborhoods look like war zones. By God’s grace, our store front church is still there, even though the neighborhoods around it are barren wastelands. We have no word on whether or not we can return to our home, or the church at this point. Helicopters and aircrafts are doing what they can, alongside ground crews.

With His Eminence’s blessing I am asking you to consider helping our parishioners and others in our local community to get back on their feet, if you are able. This is an opportunity for us to manifest “Christ in our midst” to all those around us in need. We are setting up a “fire relief” fund to help our parishioners and others affected. We appreciate your prayers and donations to those suffering in our community.

Donations may be sent to:
Archangel Gabriel Orthodox Church
PO Box 823
Ashland, OR 97540

Please make sure to mark your check “Fire Relief.”

You may also donate via PayPal by going to paypal.me/stgabriel. Again, make sure to add a note saying “Fire Relief.”

Thank you!

Fr. Andreas Blom
Rector, Archangel Gabriel Orthodox Church
Ashland, OR