As we watch the heartbreaking scenes unfolding in Southern California, where wildfires continue to wreak havoc on communities, homes and lives, our hearts ache for those affected.
The devastation is overwhelming — 10 lives have been lost, 200,000 have been evacuated, over 10,000 structures have been lost, and lives are in limbo as families wait for news of loved ones and their possessions.
“Please keep praying for all those suffering in the wildfires sweeping through southern California. My heart goes out to our neighbors who have lost their homes and livelihoods,” Archbishop José H. Gomez said in a recent Instagram post. “Let’s pray for them and let’s pray for our firefighters and first responders. May God keep all of our brothers and sisters safe and bring [an] end to these fires!”
As Catholics, we know that we are called to come together in times of crisis — not just in prayer but in action. This is our chance to show the love and solidarity that Christ calls us to, especially when our brothers and sisters are suffering.
A Call to Love Our Neighbors
In his letter to the Corinthians, St. Paul reminds us, “If one member suffers, all suffer together” (1 Cor 12:26). The wildfires in Southern California are not distant tragedies — they are a crisis for all of us. And as Catholics, we believe that Christ calls us to help bear each other’s burdens, especially in times of great need.
When we look at the images of families fleeing their homes, of first responders risking their lives to save others, of communities left in ruins, we see Christ in the faces of those who are suffering. Jesus tells us in the Gospel of Matthew, “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me” (Mt 25:35). These are not just words; they are a challenge to love our neighbors, especially when they are in pain.
How We Can Help
While we may be far from the flames, there are tangible ways we can support those in Southern California and stand in solidarity with them during this difficult time:
- Financial Contributions: One of the most immediate ways we can assist is by donating to organizations providing relief. The Archdiocese of Los Angeles has set up a donation portal to help parishes, schools and communities impacted by the fires. The St. Vincent de Paul Society Los Angeles is helping families with food, clothing, hygiene kits and more. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a difference in the lives of those who are struggling to rebuild.
- Prayer: Prayer is a powerful way to unite our hearts with those in need. As a community of faith, we can pray for the victims of the fires, for the safety of first responders and for those working to rebuild. A simple prayer asking for God’s healing presence can provide a sense of peace during this chaotic time.A prayer from Catholic Charities USA for those affected by disaster:”God of hope and mercy, we lift up to you all victims of natural disasters and those responding with assistance and aid. Protect all who are in any form of danger; provide practical help to those in need; strengthen the weary, console the grieving, heal the suffering; and bless those engaged in disaster relief efforts with safety and courage. Help all people of good will respond with compassion and generous hearts. Amen.”
It’s easy to feel disconnected when disasters happen far from home, but as Catholics, we know that we are called to see the face of Christ in all people. The people suffering in California are not strangers to us — they are our brothers and sisters, and they are part of our larger Catholic family. They need our prayers, our love and our support. Now is the time to live our faith in a tangible way.
