On Saturday, August 1, 2026, with high winds (more than 40 mph), hot temperatures, and dry conditions, the Old Trails fire began in northern Spokane and jumped the Spokane River into one of the most populous regions of Spokane County, WA. This forced emergency evacuations for all those living in the area, including parishioners from Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Spokane. Also evacuated are Rev. Father Stephen and Presvytera Irene Supica, who served the parish for 32 years until his retirement in 2020. The parish joined in prayer on Saturday evening at Great Vespers and Paraklesis and during this morning’s Divine Liturgy for those affected by the fires and the wider Spokane community.
His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco stated, “The sudden and unpredictable nature of these devastating wildfires reminds us how fragile life can be and how quickly homes, neighborhoods, and communities can be transformed by disaster. As we witness the heartbreaking destruction throughout the Spokane region, we continue to hold in our prayers the faithful of Holy Trinity, their neighbors, and all who have suffered loss. We also pray for the courageous firefighters and emergency personnel who continue their tireless efforts to protect lives and property. May God grant strength, comfort, and hope to all who have been affected.”
As of Sunday, August 2, all parishioners have been accounted for and no loss of life has occurred. According to Holy Trinity parish priest Rev. Father Daniel Triant, “While there was widespread loss of homes and structures, as far as we know, none of our parishioners have lost homes. We are grateful to the many who have stepped up to offer their own homes and resources for those who have been displaced and are in need. I have received countless emails and phone calls offering prayers and support. We are grateful for the response of our emergency crews, who worked tirelessly through the night to contain over a dozen wildfires continuing to threaten the region. But the effort is still ongoing and the containment of the fires is minimal at this time.”
This is one of the worst fire seasons of the area, with the current wildfires burning nearly 8,000 acres and over 600 structures destroyed as of today. There are many devastated by property loss, and the images of the homes and land burning in this fire are heartbreaking.
Holy Trinity remains standing literally, but also figuratively. There is strength within its walls as parish members come together in prayer, hope, and action. The parish will continue to assess the situation over the next few days and offer assistance to the greater community who are suffering.
Hero Photo by Tyler Vanwert via Reuters