Los Angeles Wildfires and Self-Realization Fellowship
As you know, multiple wildfires have caused widespread devastation across Los Angeles.
Like you, we are deeply moved by the acts of courage, kindness, and generosity taking place across the city, in the spirit of service to others.
Paramahansa Yogananda’s spiritual family of SRF/YSS members and friends has also responded, from around the globe, praying for the safety and well-being of the firefighters, for all those affected by the fires, and for those working to help their communities and neighbors to stay safe at this crucial time.
We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your prayers, concern, and the many offers of help that you have extended to SRF and to all affected by this disaster.
Gratitude for Your Concern for SRF Lake Shrine and Pacific Palisades Community
We are so grateful that our worldwide SRF/YSS family was also praying around the clock for the Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine during the fires that surrounded it.
We are heartened that the SRF Lake Shrine was spared, and will remain a sanctuary of peace, beauty, and divine solace — vitally needed in the coming weeks and months — a place for many future generations to discover and benefit from the sacred, uplifting vibrations emanating from this spiritual center, as foreseen by Paramahansa Yogananda. (See latest updates about the SRF Lake Shrine and the wildfire in Pacific Palisades.)
Thank you for your concern for the SRF monks at the Lake Shrine. Many of you have reached out to offer support to Self-Realization Fellowship monks at the SRF Lake Shrine who were living and working out of the ashram buildings that were destroyed in the fire. We are not able to receive individual care packages at this time, but please know that the monks’ needs are well provided for by SRF, and please receive our thanks for your kind offer. If you would like to help SRF provide what is needed, or to contribute toward recovery efforts on the grounds, donations to SRF are welcome. Donate now
Help and Support for Those in Need
SRF monks and nuns who serve as ministers and counselors are available to help,listen to, and pray with those who may be in distress because of the fires in Los Angeles, and to offer comfort and perspective from the all-embracing teachings of our Guru. (Spiritual counseling is a resource that SRF offers to members and friends worldwide at all times of the year.)
- For spiritual counseling, we invite you to call the SRF International Headquarters: (323) 225-2471
As part of the Self-Realization Fellowship Prayer Council, monastics also pray daily for all those who request prayers for physical, mental, and spiritual healing; and for world peace.
- Request prayers for yourself, your loved ones, or anyone in need at this or any other time.
Self-Realization Fellowship is making monetary donations to several organizations working on relief and recovery efforts for those affected by the Los Angeles wildfires:
- California Community Foundation is a 110-year-old Los Angeles-based foundation’s Wildfire Recovery Fund addressing long-term recovery needs like temporary housing, rebuilding homes, mental health and medical care. It also provides updated equipment to firefighters and helps rebuild emergency communications systems.
- California Fire Foundation, a non-profit organization, provides emotional and financial assistance to families of fallen firefighters and the communities they protect. Formed in 1987 by California Professional Firefighters, the California Fire Foundation’s mandate includes an array of survivor assistance projects and community initiatives.
- Core (Community Organized Relief Effort) is a global humanitarian organization that delivers immediate response and long-term recovery solutions to underserved communities across the globe.
Those in need of material help may wish to contact one of the above charities; and those who want to help others’ material needs may also wish to be in touch with these or similar charities, such as are often listed in the news media.
Additional Ways You Can Help
Local Food and Clothing Drive: The SRF Temples in Southern California (Glendale, Hollywood, Fullerton, Encinitas, and San Diego) that were not affected by the wildfires are organizing donations to local charities in Los Angeles helping with relief efforts. Please contact your local temple to learn more about how to contribute.
The United Power of Prayer: The prayers of the monks and nuns are augmented by the Worldwide Prayer Circle — composed of SRF members and friends around the globe who pray daily for all those in need.
- Join us in serving others around the world, and the cause of world peace, through the dynamic power of prayer.
Please check this webpage as we continue to update it with further information and resources for those who need help, and those who want to contribute.
Spiritual Guidance in Troubled Times
- Watch the video “Special Message From Brother Chidananda About the SRF Lake Shrine and Los Angeles Fires”
- Excerpts from the talks and writings of Paramahansa Yogananda:
For more information visit the website here
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