Two major wildfires have swept through 40,000 acres of residential areas in Los Angeles County, mostly north of the city boundaries. Over two dozen people have died, and more than 30 are missing. Dry conditions and high winds were responsible for the rapid spread of these fires to the Palisades and Eaton regions.
The areas that are actually on fire may seem small in comparison to the enormous Los Angeles metropolitan area populated by 18 million residents. Most of them are not (yet) at risk from these particular fires that burn relentlessly in ares like Palisades and Eaton, where there are homes for superstars and rich people, ordinary people, and many poor people as well. In these densely populated areas, people feel that they have seen the apocalypse. Firefighters have been struggling night and day to contain the blaze, and have finally begun to have some success in containing the fire. For thousands of private homes in the area, however, it is too late.
There is the long and laborious work ahead to prevail over the fire and reconstruct the areas affected. We have to join with these suffering people in prayer, compassion, and whatever material support we might be able to provide. May the Lord pour out His superabundant graces and mercy on all those who have suffered loss at this time. Lord, have mercy on those who are afflicted, who have lost homes that they cherish. Our Lady of Guadalupe, pray for your children!
Nuestra Señora la Reina de los Ángeles, pray for us!
