Ukrainian Parish in Los Angeles Under Threat from Raging Wildfires
The Ukrainian Parish of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Los Angeles faced a grave threat from the wildfires that have swept across California. Thanks to the swift and dedicated efforts of firefighters, the flames were extinguished just 3 miles (4.8 km) from the parish church.
Maxar satellite image of the Altadena, California, fires on January 8, 2025. Getty Images/Satellite image © 2025 Maxar Technologies
Bishop Venedykt Aleksiychuk of the Eparchy of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker in Chicago reported the news.
The bishop stated that he remains in constant contact with Fr. Ihor Koshyk, the parish rector, as the situation continues to pose a threat. “Although the situation was quite severe, today, praise God, it is under control,” Bishop Venedykt said.
The bishop also called for prayers for all those affected by the fires: “We ask everyone to pray, as the danger remains at a very high level.”
Nativity Of The Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church in Los Angeles, USA
The wildfires in Los Angeles began on January 8. As of January 9, five people have been reported dead, with the number of victims likely to rise. About 180,000 residents have been evacuated, and several thousand buildings have been damaged. Wildfires continue to devastate Los Angeles County, with most of the region remaining under red alert.
The UGCC Department for Information
