The Metropolitan of St. Francis on the fires in Spokane and the community of the Holy Trinitytranslated

A large fire broke out on Saturday, August 1, 2026, in the northern area of ​​Spokane, Washington State, USA. Strong winds of more than 40 mph (64 km/h), combined with extremely high temperatures and prolonged drought, contributed to the rapid spread of the fire, which crossed the Spokane River and reached one of the most densely populated areas of the county, prompting widespread mandatory evacuations. Among the residents who were forced to leave their homes were also members of the Greek Orthodox parish of Agia Triado, as well as the now retired vicar of the community, archpriest Fr. Stefanos Soupitsa, with elder Irini. Father Stefanos served the parish for 32 consecutive years, until his retirement in 2020.

On Saturday night, during Great Vespers and Prayer, but also during Sunday's Divine Liturgy, the faithful of the parish prayed fervently for all those affected by the devastating fires, as well as for the entire local community of Spokane.

In his message, His Eminence the Metropolitan of Agios Francis, Mr. Gerasimos said:

"The sudden and unpredictable nature...