Paradise is now open for visiting. The city is a surreal picture of metal carcasses of once inhabited buildings, now rolled up as a tangled bundle, melted remains of cars, heaps of rubble and brick chimneys standing alone in the open space… About 80% of the city is in ruins. Water supply, gas supple, and other communications are disrupted. Because of the smoke damage and lack of heat, the buildings that miraculously remained intact are still unsuitable for living.
People now starting to realize that their previous life has ended, that they are facing colossal problems that they have to deal with quickly, but they are incapable of at the moment. They must continue paying their mortgages while at the same time pay for rent where they were relocated. The banks wait for their payments, outstanding insurances, but people have no income and will not have in the near future. They have to start the new life, but they do not have the place or the means for that.
Out of the entire city population, only a small percentage of people are Christians who find their comfort and support in God, church, and the love of brothers and sisters. What will happen to those who realize the gravity of their situation is a concern of both the social services as well as church pastors of Paradise. Tim Bollin who is the executive pastor of Paradise Alliance Church said the following in an interview:
- Like never before, we realize that this is the time when churches must serve its community where they are located, to give the people the message of hope and salvation, and give people a chance to overcome this darkness of hopelessness and grasp faith and love.
Miraculously, the church building remained almost unharmed although the surrounding grass, trees, and some of the walls were burned. Special services are cleaning the building trying to remove the harmful smell of smoke which affected all the buildings. On December 22, in the sanctuary which holds 1200 there will be a few services which will be attended by only the city residents. There will be the gospel message of Jesus Christ, songs of worshipping God for the deliverance from the flames, and the thanksgiving for salvation from eternal punishment. All Christians regardless of their denominations as well as unbelievers will celebrate life and birth of Jesus Christ.
However, only 4,500 or 10% of the population will be able to participate in the celebration. What will happen to the rest? How will they celebrate Christmas? What will happen to them next? Who will comfort them, support them in the time of sorrow during this difficult time for them? If these questions stir your Christian conscience, contact Nicolay Kvach who is the Association’s relief coordinator for the Paradise fire victims, and he will share information about how you can help and how you can demonstrate your compassion and help. His contact: (916)706-8990.
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