California Fires Impact Church of God Families
Cleveland, TN–The Church of God family has once again been struck by disaster. The fires raging in Northern California have claimed the homes of at least five families associated with the Stony Point Christian Fellowship Church in Santa Rosa, Calif. In total, at least 10 people have been killed and more than 1,500 homes and businesses have been destroyed by the fast moving fires, fueled by winds that at times have exceeded 50 miles per hour.
“I am once again calling on the church to be in immediate prayer for the families of those who have been killed by these horrible fires, as well as for our members and friends in Northern California who have seen their homes and businesses destroyed,” stated Timothy M. Hill, General Overseer of the Church of God. “It is imperative that we pray that the winds will calm down so that the firefighters can get the fires under control. There is no doubt that we serve a God who causes the winds to obey Him.”
At least 14 separate fires have been identified in eight Northern California counties, prompting the evacuation of tens of thousands of residents. More than 70,000 acres have already burned. Strong warm winds and overly dry ground have created perfect conditions for the fires to spread rapidly. The Santa Rosa area has been hardest hit, prompting even the hospitals to evacuate their patients.
Hill concluded, “These fires are shaping up to be the worst in California history. Join me in praying for the winds to stop, for the firefighters to get containment, and for the safety of all those involved.”
