A photo taken by the Rev. Kathleen Murray from her cul-de-sac in New Market, VA.
As of Wednesday afternoon there are wildfires affecting areas within our diocese, including Shenandoah County, Page County, Shenandoah National Park and Valley, and Fort Valley.
The Very Rev. Kathleen Murray, Rector of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Mount Jackson and Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Woodstock and Dean of the Southern Shenandoah Valley Region said, “As best we can tell, we’ve checked in with all our churches, and, as far as we know, no one has suffered any damage yet.”
Murray also said, “Shenandoah County Sheriff’s Department has gotten all the kind of supplies that could be needed right now, but certainly they are asking for donations through the American Red Cross. We of course would ask for them from Episcopal Relief and Development.”
Bishop Stevenson offers this statement:
“Wednesday I was notified of the wildfires that are affecting areas of our diocese. My office contacted Episcopal Relief & Development on Friday morning and are working with Katie Mears to identify current conditions and needs. During this time of uncertainty and upheaval, we ask for your continued prayers for all those affected by the wildfires. Let us lift up our voices in solidarity, seeking comfort and strength for those facing loss and hardship. We will provide updates and needs as we receive them.”
Follow along live at WHSV – TV 3, the Shenandoah Valley’s local news station.