Jun 10, 2016 - The people of Fort McMurray have begun to return to the city and to face the ... for worship, using All S
The Anglican Church of Canada
Diocese of Athabasca From the desk of The Rt. Rev. Fraser Lawton
June 10, 2016 Fort McMurray Fires update Dear Fellow Servants of Christ, The people of Fort McMurray have begun to return to the city and to face the realities and work of restoration. This return process will continue over weeks and months, as some will remain out of the city while children finish school, as they wait for the lifting of the boil water advisory, and as some need to find a new place to live in the city. About a dozen parishioners are in this latter group, having lost everything to the fires. We are grateful that our buildings are intact and that we were able to join together for worship, using All Saints’ building last Sunday (June 5). All our buildings have clean-up work to be done, especially in terms of dealing with the effects of smoke. Nonetheless, both parishes are planning to return to the regular Sunday schedule this week. Both parishes do face a significant amount of work in the buildings and in returning to being fully functional. Our parishioners face the same issues with their own homes, jobs, families, and lives. There are a number of ways that you can help the people of Fort McMurray. First, please continue to pray for them and for the restoration process. We face some financial costs that are not covered by insurance or other relief funding. The diocese is still receiving donations to “Fort McMurray Fire” that will be directed to areas of need in the parishes. We are able to make use of volunteers immediately to support the clean-up work and the “chores” that go with returning the buildings and grounds to full usage. Please contact the diocese to participate in this way. We are also planning for summer programming for children, and will be happy to have volunteers help with that. Again, please contact the office for more information. May God give us the grace and strength for the work ahead. The Lord be with you, +Fraser PO BOX 6868 9710 – 100 AVE PEACE RIVER AB T8S 1S6 780-624-2767
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