October 29, 2003
*** The Presbytery of San Diego Responds to Firestorm 2003 (Updated 11/10)***

Prayer Matters & Church Updates:

• Presbyterian Disaster Assistance Team members are here to help!

  Rev. Robert H. Barnes (Bobb), a member of the Presbyterian Disaster Assistance Team, arrived in San Diego on Wednesday, and another member of the team will join him on Saturday. They are here to help people who have been affected by the recent firestorm. Their initial concerns are the needs of low income, elderly and other marginal populations, and care for clergy caregivers. However, they are also looking for churches to visit and people to see. Please feel free to contact them directly or through the Presbytery office.

  Rev. Barnes cell phone is: 505-690-0300.

• Westminster, Escondido - Many in the church have suffered losses. The gravest situation is that of the Roach family. They got caught in a firestorm and had very little warning before their house was engulfed in flames. Ashleigh (16) was trapped in their car and died. Allyson (20) suffered burns over 85% of her body and has a 25% chance of survival (she's at UCSD burn unit). Jason (22) escaped with many burns, but was not able to save his little sister from the burning car. Parents John & Lori were not able to see anyone due to the smoke and flames and they were searching for their children and unable to find them until they got to the hospital. A service is planned for family and closest friends on Thursday, Oct. 30th, 2:00pm at Westminster, Escondido, and one for the community, for all friends, & acquaintances on Thurs. Oct. 30th at 4:00pm at the California Center for the Performing Arts Conference Rooms. Ashleigh Roach Memorial Service

• CornerStone, Ramona - David & Sandee Whitmoyer (Moderator of the Presbytery) were evacuated from their home in San Diego Country Estates very early Sunday morning (1:30am), and are currently camped at Mission Bay. Presently the Estates have no electricity, no cable, and no phone service. Many people in the church live in that neighborhood and in areas directly affected by the fire including Leland Jones, the Episcopal Priest who lives on Old Julian Highway.

• Rancho Bernardo has 26 families whose homes have burned to the ground with others who are not yet sure! They had a prayer service Monday Oct. 17, at 7:30pm.

• Lakeside has had two members lose their homes (one in the Moreno Valley & one in Harbison Canyon). Dozens were evacuated and many are without power. They have been unable to reach a number of members in danger areas and do not know their whereabouts yet.

• Trinity, Spring Valley has had several members evacuated and the church is being used for shelter. They are in need of fresh food: bread, milk, juice, etc., and also diapers. You may contact the church directly (619) 465-3011, ask for Lucy.

• Faith, San Diego has had many members evacuated and staying with friends or family until they are able to return. They may be able to provide housing and temporary material support as needed.

• Palisades has four families who were evacuated and are staying at the church.

• Village, Rancho Santa Fe is willing and able to house people needing temporary shelter. Please contact Jan Farley at 858-756-2441.

• First Presbyterian Church, San Diego - Rev. Womack has a house in Pacific Beach that could be used to house a family.

• Graham Memorial is calling the Deacons to find out how many families they can provide immediate housing for. Please contact David McElrath at 619-435-6860.

Miscellaneous

• Faith Chapel, an evacuation center, is in need of blankets and other bedding. Faith Chapel is located at 9400 Camp Road.

Ways to Donate

• The Presbytery of San Diego has set up a designated fund for victims of the fire storm. Check can be made out the Presbytery of San Diego and designated to "Firestorm 2003 Relief Fund." All monies will go directly to needy families.

• Money can also be sent to General Assembly Offices, Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, by designating gifts for California Fires #9-2000165. Please note: this account is for all of California and not just San Diego. Gifts by credit card can be made by calling PresbyTel at 800-872-3283 or online at http://www.pcusa.org/pda/donate/accounts.htm; checks can also be mailed directly to: Central Receiving Service, Section 300, Louisville, KY 40289

Services Planned:

• Memorial Services for Ashleigh Roach - Westminster, Escondido

  • Thursday, Oct. 30th, 2:00pm at Westminster, Escondido - this service is for Westminster Presbyterian Church and family and closest friends. All Pastors of the Presbytery are invited to attend this service as our commitment to stand beside the pastors and members of Westminster Church. Seating is limited. Any elders are encouraged to attend the 4:00pm service at the Center for the Performing Arts.

  • Thursday, Oct. 30th, 4:00pm, California Center for the Performing Arts Conference Rooms - this service is for the community, for all friends, & acquaintances.

• Presbyterian Churches of East County,
  
  
  Worship and Intercession
  for the Victims of Firestorm 2003
  at First Presbyterian Church of El Cajon
  7:30 p.m. on Sunday, November 2, 2003
  An offering for the victims will be taken
  For the Presbyterian Disaster and Relief Fund.
  All the monies will stay within the bounds of the presbytery for relief to our neighbors.
  We are inviting pastors, leaders, congregations to participate in an event of intercession and healing.
  Rev. Dr. Andy Smith, our Presbytery Executive, will bring information and a message of affirmation titled: "Washing One Another's Wounds."
  Please call for further information: (619) 442-2583