In response to multiple fires burning around Los Angeles, California, Elder Mark A. Bragg, General Authority Seventy and president of the North America West Area of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, issued the following statement:
“Our hearts go out to all affected by the fires that continue to cause destruction in Southern California. As one who grew up and has deep roots in the area, I have a great love for the community. Our prayers are with those who have lost their homes and are displaced and for the first responders. We mourn with those who have experienced loss and ask for the Savior’s comforting spirit to be with them. We also express gratitude for the acts of faith and work sustaining those affected by this crisis.
“At this time, the Church is mobilizing its resources. Everyone is encouraged to volunteer and make themselves available to assist those in need. The Church is committed to helping during this emergency and throughout the aftermath.”
The statement was posted Thursday, Jan. 9, on ChurchofJesusChrist.org.
At least five fires are still burning out of control in the Los Angeles area, covering more than 45 square miles and destroying houses and other structures.
The biggest of the fires, the Palisades Fire, is the most destructive fire in L.A. history. It remains entirely uncontained, reported the Deseret News.
Officials report that at least five people have died in the fires. Around 180,000 people have been forced to evacuate from their homes.
