All of us have been following the news about the tragic fire in Paradise, California. The “Camp Fire” is the worst fire in California history. Almost every home and building in Paradise has burned to the ground and the death toll is nearing 100.
As I watched the sad news, the name “Paradise” rang a bell. I checked my records and discovered that Pastor David McMartin started a men’s team ministry to their widowed and single parents in his church there, Paradise Evangelical Free Church, back in 2007. I looked the church up online and discovered that the current pastor, Pastor Art Worthington, assumed the role in 2012.
Thankfully, all the members of the church survived the fire, along with the church building – one of the few structures in Paradise still standing. The homes of its members, however, didn’t fare so well. All but two or three in the church lost their homes. You can watch a video from Pastor Worthington describing how the fire is affecting his church here. Paradise EVFree is an excellent example of how churches can respond to catastrophic events. I especially appreciate how Pastor Worthington is utilizing the resources of a nearby church just outside of the destruction zone.
Churches experiencing catastrophic events need our support. They are an excellent and efficient way to channel resources to their hurting community. Here is a message the church has left on its website for potential donors:
The Camp Fire blazed through Paradise leaving this once picturesque mountain town a blackened heap of ashes, destructionanddeath. It was the most destructive wildfire in California history. At the time of this writing, 7,700 homes, 400 businesses and most of the churches in Paradise were destroyed. Though the PEFC building escaped the firestorm unscathed, the community of Paradise was wiped out. Rebuilding our once-beautiful community and sustaining our wonderful congregation will take time, effort and financial support. Please consider giving by clicking on the link.
This post first appeared in NewCommandment.org.
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