From the Rector
Fires Ravage Rogue Valley

Dear Family of God at St. Mark's:

Yesterday's fire, which began in Ashland and quickly swept up the Greenway through Talent and Phoenix, and other spot fires on Table Rock and in other places, have markedly altered our valley, likely for years to come. As it has been less than 24 hours since this started, we are still early in this situation. That said, to my knowledge, no one at St. Mark's has lost their home, but many are certainly still under an evacuation order. If you need assistance in any way, please contact me at (541) 414-4847 and I'll do my best to assist you.

Regardless of our physical needs, this fire is another trauma on top of the Covid-19 trauma, so we certainly need prayer and God's healing grace in our lives and in our valley. Please continue to keep everyone in your prayers. Today's Food Pantry was understandably canceled and I'm in conversation with Rogue Retreat about what their current and potential future needs are regarding homeless services.

On a personal note, our house is several blocks north of the Level 2 evacuation area, so we're ready to evacuate if necessary but are fine and are aware of many in our congregation who are not as fortunate. As far as I know, everyone is safe. Call or email me and let me know how you are doing, if you have time.

Finally, at this point we are still planning on holding another in-person service this coming Sunday, September 13 at 9 a.m. We will evaluate this in the next day or two and let people know by Friday via the eNewsletter. I'm aware that, in normal times, people want to gather for mutual support after a tragedy like this, but obviously these are not normal times. Please stay safe!

Blessings,
-- Tom+
The Rev. Tom Sramek, Jr.
Rector

P.S. The possibility of putting off Celebration of Bishop Hanley's Ministry scheduled for Sunday afternoon is currently being discussed. We will also advise you of the decision on that via the Friday eNewsletter. Keep in touch!