In January, wildfires driven by strong winds destroyed homes, neighborhoods and wildlife in Los Angeles County. Thousands lost homes, their lives uprooted by the destruction.
On Saturday, Feb. 22, President Jeffrey R. Holland, the Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, met with members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from Pasadena, Palisades and Altadena, California who were impacted by the wildfires.
"[God] loves us. I don't know whether a meeting like this means anything to you, but it means a lot to us that we want you to know,” President Holland said. “We cry with you. We pray with you. You're not isolated. You're not forgotten."
"We cling to what we know," President Holland continued, "That means faith, perseverance, patience, and brotherly kindness."
Wildfires usually happen during the summer and are rare in January. Meteorologists noted that the rain following the fires resulted in flooding, causing additional damage to streets and public places.
The Palisades, Eaton and Hughes fires are among the 10 largest fires in this area since 2013.
President Holland referenced the Savior's words to young people, "I will never leave you, nor forsake you." He offered a blessing to their mothers who were flying "the flag of faith."
Elder Mark Bragg, North America West Area President, along with his wife, Yvonne, joined in support. They are lifelong members of the West Hollywood area.
Read the full story here https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/president-holland-opens-his-heart-to-families-impacted-by-california-wildfires