Greg Laurie Urges People To Help Maui Wildfire Victims: ‘Bring Hope’
By Movieguide® Contributor
Pastor Greg Laurie is urging people to send donations and prayers to those affected by the devastating West Maui wildfire.
“On August 8, a wildfire broke out on West Maui, where our church Harvest at Kumulani Chapel is located,” he posted on Facebook. “What started off as a small brushfire quickly escalated with 50 MPH wind gusts, carrying the flames down the hills into homes and businesses. The images are devastating, as we see much of Lahaina burned down. At least 36 people have died. We are grieved and heartbroken for those affected. County officials are estimating over $1 billion in damages.”
According to CNN, this fire is the deadliest wildfire in more than 100 years, claiming 96 lives so far, adding, “An unknown number of people are still unaccounted for as search teams with cadaver dogs look for remains in devastated neighborhoods.”
In an accompanying video, Laurie said, “Lahaina [one of the villages affected by the fire] is a destination for people all around the world.”
He showed clips from a video he recently shot in Lahaina, contrasting the vibrant, bustling town with images of the aftermath of the fire.
“The majority of our congregation on Maui works and lives in and around Lahaina, meaning that many at Harvest Kumulani lost their homes, their jobs, or both in one night,” the post continued. “Galatians 6:10 says, ‘Therefore, as we have the opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.’
He continued, “We have set up the Harvest Maui Relief Fund to provide tangible support for our church’s local relief efforts. We will update you as we get more information. In the meantime, thank you for your prayers and your outpouring of concern and support.”
“We are on the ground, with a church of around 1,000 people,” Laurie said in the video. “The Harvest Maui Relief Fund will be there to help people in our congregation rebuild their lives. We’ll be there to help other people in the community who’ve been devastated by this. We’ll be there to be a bright light on this island, bringing hope and comfort in the name of Jesus.”
The Associated Press reported on other churches providing aid and comfort for those affected by the fire, including the Maria Lanakila Church.
AP shared one family’s story. Taufa and Katalina Samisoni lost an uncle, aunt, and two cousins in the fire, but Katalina said they were drawing comfort from the story of Peter walking on water and being saved from drowning.
“If Peter can walk on water, yes we can. We will get to the shore,” she said.
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