Dear Westwood Community,
This week has been a lot–for all of us. Especially for those who have lost so much: workplaces, homes, even loved ones. My heart breaks for all that has been changed by the wildfires that are not yet contained here in Los Angeles county. Even for those of us watching from a safe distance, the emotional and mental health cost of this disaster has already been significant.
I encourage you to pause and take a moment. Take a deep breath. Touch your hand to your heart. Remember that you are beloved, and that it’s okay to feel all the things you are feeling.
We are going to need each other, for the long haul, as we move forward through this disaster and toward our future. Please know that tending your own well-being is not only a faithful way to honor God’s presence in you, but also strategic because there is going to be a lot of work to do.
I’m attaching a document here, prepared by our own Rachel Gipson, with some tips for coping during a disaster; I offer them for your well-being, and for you to share with others. Third on this list is a reminder to stay connected: “It is common to isolate after a disaster or loss, or to feel a sense of loneliness in your grief. Community and relationships are crucial to your wellbeing, especially during times of crisis. You might find you don’t want to talk about your experiences, or you might feel you can’t stop talking about it. Either is normal, and perfectly fine. You need not feel pressured to share more or less than feels right.”
I am so grateful for our community; last Sunday, worshiping together felt powerful and needed. We blessed prayer shawls for folks in our community who have lost their homes, and prayed over clergy stoles to be given to the United Methodist pastors who lost theirs–along with their church buildings–in these fires. We told each other our stories, and listened, too. We remembered that God gives us a hope that is unfailing, and a love that is stronger even than death. In the afternoon, we welcomed folks from the broader community and our neighbor Westside mission area churches, including the Community UMC in the Palisades that burned in the fire, the Santa Monica First UMC that was evacuated for much of last week, and our Bishop Dottie Escobedo-Frank. It was really good to connect, and to pray together.
It has been encouraging to know and notice all the ways that we are providing relief in this moment. Lots of us have been hosting evacuated friends in our homes, volunteering at relief centers, donating needed items and funds to help those in need. We are also exploring ways our church building can provided needed space for groups that have lost theirs. Thank you all for all the ways you have stepped up with compassion and care.
I’m attaching again some information about ways to help, and news from the church about what is going on. I hope you will continue to care for yourself, your neighbors, and the whole of our community.
grace and peace,
Pastor Molly
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If you want to help, one of the best ways is to offer help to people you know personally.
