Orthodox Church parishioners evacuated due to wildfires in USA

Wildfire in Washington state, USA. Photo: Robert Gray/Spokane Fire District No. 9.

On August 3, 2026, in the American city of Spokane, Washington state, parishioners of the Greek Orthodox Church of the Holy Trinity were evacuated due to rapidly spreading wildfires, reports the UOJ-USA.

The Old Trails Fire broke out amid strong winds, extreme heat, and drought. The fire crossed the Spokane River and approached densely populated areas, after which authorities declared an emergency evacuation. Emergency evacuation orders included members of Holy Trinity, as well as the retired former parish priest, Fr. Stephen Supica, and Presbytera Irene Supica.

The parish offered prayers for those affected during Great Vespers, the Paraklesis service, and the Divine Liturgy, while Metr. Gerasimos of San Francisco called on the faithful to remember victims and first responders.

According to Holy Trinity's rector, Fr. Daniel Triant, all parishioners had been accounted for as of Sunday, and no deaths or injuries had been reported within the parish community. Although many homes and buildings throughout the region were destroyed, the parish had received no reports that members had lost their homes.

The fires destroyed more than 600 structures and engulfed nearly 8,000 acres of land. The metropolis emphasized that the Holy Trinity Church continues to operate, and parishioners are uniting in prayer and providing support to the affected residents of the region.

Previously, the UOJ reported that New York’s Phanar church community is urged to cancel a dinner in honor of Zelensky.

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