Editor’s note: Although written about a wildfire that ravaged Malibu, Calif., in 1993 — a fire not nearly as devastating as the Los Angeles-area fires of 2025 — this piece offers important reflections on what it means to be both…
Du Mez, Jones and Bass say lies about California fires are portents of things to come
In blaming Californians and their governor for the wildfires ravaging Los Angeles, Donald Trump provided a glimpse of the onslaught of disinformation Americans can expect from their next president, Kristen Du Mez said during the latest “Convocation Unscripted” webinar. Trump…
California congregations vow to help neighbors even as their buildings are lost to fires
Like many of their neighbors, leaders of the Pasadena Jewish Temple & Center watched in horror this week as wildfires destroyed homes, businesses and entire neighborhoods in Southern California, with the destruction playing out on social media and television news.
Lahaina’s diverse religious community won’t be stopped by wildfire
As the Hawaii Conference of the United Church of Christ gathered for worship via Zoom Aug. 20, worshipers heard a bell toll 114 times. That was one bell for every confirmed life lost in the wildfires that have ravaged parts…
Oregon is burning while most white Christians deny climate science
The smoke permeates everything. Even with every door and window closed tight. The whole house smells like smoke. This week, Oregon has erupted in wildfires. Nearly a million acres are burning, and unusual winds from the east have blown the…
A walking guide to praying in your home
I was reminded of a prayer practice when I read our pastor’s plea for “purposeful prayer for a world that is very much in need of God’s healing.” As the California fires continue destroying homes and lives, 2020’s disastrous news…