Devastating wildfires have raged across Maui, Hawaii, to the tragic loss of more than a hundred lives and counting. The fires have destroyed significant portions of Maui’s infrastructure, including the city of Lahaina, which was almost completely leveled. The sanctuary of the historic Lahaina United Methodist Church was lost to fire. Reportedly no church members were lost, though many have been displaced. They and others in Maui will spend the next weeks and months trying to assess the damage. It will take years for them to rebuild.
As scripture reminds us, “The prayers of the righteous are powerful.” Please hold the people of Maui in prayer as they grieve the loss of life and try to put their lives back together. And please consider helping with relief efforts by donating to the Lahaina Relief Fund.
Pray with me.
Gracious and loving God, embrace all of those who mourn the loss of their loved ones because of the wildfires in Maui. Help those who are now homeless and all who are working toward recovery. In the name of Christ. Amen.
Blessings,
Bishop Kennetha J. Bigham-Tsai