Updated: 1/20/2025
Ongoing Wildfires: [New Update/Key Facts]
As wildfires continue to impact our region, here’s the latest information we know…
A Message from Pastor Steve Snook of Metro Church
We continue to pray for and support the many families and churches affected by the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, including the Palisades Fire. Pastor Steve Snook of Metro Church shared his heartfelt perspective as one of the families who lost their home in this tragedy:
“I’m so grateful for our Calvary family and for all the love and support you’ve shown us. Many of you have seen the videos of the fires, but for us, the reality hit home with the Palisades Fire. Our whole neighborhood, along with the neighborhood next to it, is gone. Through Malibu, so many lives and homes have been impacted. Some in our fellowship lost their homes, and we had the chance to come together today and talk about the loss.”
Pastor Steve described the range of emotions he’s experienced—from numbness to gratitude—as his family and others process the devastation. He shared how they left their home in one car, thinking they’d return the next day, only to find their neighborhood destroyed. Despite the losses, he expressed deep gratitude for his family’s safety:
“When I started thinking about what was lost—my Vespa, surfboards, and so many things—I remembered the most important thing: my wife, my daughter, and her dog. We all got out safely. For that, I’m incredibly thankful.”
In addition to the personal losses, Pastor Steve highlighted the broader impact on the church community:
“Almost every church in Pacific Palisades was burned to the ground. As we rally churches in Santa Monica and other areas on the west side, we’re asking: What can we do in the rebuilding process? We want to be part of something bigger than ourselves—something we’ll never forget. This is an opportunity to see the revival we’ve prayed for, to see a spiritual awakening and prodigals come home.”
An Invitation to Pray and Act
Pastor Steve calls on the greater church family to join in prayer and action:
“We’ve been praying for these things for decades. Now, we ask you to join us in prayer and to ask God: What can I do to see revival in LA? How can I pray? How can I move into action?”
Metro Church plans to provide updates from the affected areas in the coming days, sharing stories from those impacted. Pastor Steve emphasized the importance of these stories in fostering understanding and compassion:
“We need to hear these stories, not just mine but from others. This morning, as we gathered in a new space—since our usual beach club location is gone—we shared tears and hope. We’re grateful for the love, support, and prayers from people who truly care. God is with us, and He will never leave us or forsake us.”
Update on Funds Received: Thanks to the generous support from our Calvary Chapel Global Network family, we were able to allocate some of the funds to Pastor Steve Snook to help distribute to those affected by the fires. Your contributions are making a tangible difference in the lives of those impacted.
How You Can Help:
- Pray: Lift up the families, churches, and communities impacted by the fires. Pray for revival in LA and for God’s guidance in the rebuilding process.
- Support: Consider how you can assist Pastor Steve Snook (Metro Church) and other affected communities, whether through donations, volunteering, or offering encouragement.
- Stay Connected: Follow updates from Pastor Steve Snook and CalvaryChapel.com for ways to get involved.
Be Encouraged by Scripture: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.” —Deuteronomy 31:6
Let’s stand together as a church family, lifting up LA in prayer and walking in faith as we rebuild and hope for the future.
Original Post Below:
1. Pray for Those Affected
Prayer is a powerful way to support those impacted by these devastating fires. Lift up the families who have lost homes, the communities grappling with uncertainty, and the first responders working tirelessly to contain the flames. Pray for safety, strength, and for the fires to be extinguished swiftly.
2. Give to the Relief Fund
Your generosity can make a tangible difference. Every dollar donated to our relief fund will go directly toward assisting those affected by the fires. Contributions will help provide immediate aid and resources to individuals and families in need. Click here to donate.
3. Connect With Us
If your church is organizing local relief efforts, we want to support and amplify your work. Reach out to us so we can share your initiatives with our broader network. Together, we can create a unified response to meet the needs of those affected. cgn@calvarychapel.com
We’re committed to providing updates as the situation unfolds. Thank you for standing with us in prayer and action during this critical time.
