Wind and fire have driven tragedy into Sevier County, destroying many homes in the area, and causing loss of businesses and livestock. We pray God's grace for all who are affected, and for those who continue to battle the fires.
St. Anne has a good number of parishioners in that area, particularly among the young Russians and Ukrainians who work in various businesses. I visited Sevierville and Pigeon Forge on Tuesday afternoon and found everyone safe, but
Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge is a major employer in East Tennessee, particularly during the winter months. Long after the fires are gone, the economic impact and dislocation of lives will continue. We will be watching to see how the parish can be of help.
Jeff Turner, a member of the parish, works for the Forestry Service and has been involved in the on-going work to contain the various fires in the area. Keep him and all of the others in this work in your prayers.
If there are any significant bits of news within the parish, I will send them along.
Fr. Stephen +
O Lord, grant that our cities and towns and all who dwell there be preserved from famine, pestilence, earthquake, flood, fire, the sword, the attack of enemies, and civil war; that our good and loving God may be merciful and favorable to those whose lives and property have been stricken in this present danger. Assist those who serve them and protect them all!
Through the mercies of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ!
