06/19/2024
Today brings even sadder news this morning for so many in our community and our congregation. As of an hour ago the South Fork Fire that is burning through the northwestern part of town has consumed over 16,335 acres and destroyed around 1400 structures. Additionally, burning south of town is the Salt fire. It has consumed over 13,921 acres and has affected over 400+ structures/homes. Both of the fires are 0% contained. We have confirmation from several church members who have lost their houses, with others still waiting to hear something.
The bright spot in today's news is the forecast that rain could occur today and tomorrow. Please pray God will allow rain to come. However, with the chance of rain in the mountains after a fire also comes the high risk of flood, which could bring additional damage but relief from the fires.
At this time, all of Ruidoso, Ruidoso Downs, and parts of Alto have been evacuated. We're not sure when the evacuation orders will lift.
As for me personally, my family and I are still at Sacramento camp with students from Ruidoso. We are all safe, fed, and secure, just concerned about all that's happening back home. We have very limited access to cell service and wifi, but the camp (and my leadership team) have greatly stepped up to help us communicate as frequently as needed. The best way to ensure personally getting me at this time is via email.
Finally, for all of those reading this that aren't in Ruidoso and would like to help, after texting with several of our leaders we have decided to set up a fire relief fund for the church. Every cent donated to this will go to help people who have been affected by the fire. For those who want to donate, please visit https://ruidosocumc.churchcenter.com/giving, then select the first option for fire relief. As soon as they open up the village, I will head that way and give y'all more information.
If you would like to mail in checks to Community Methodist in Ruidoso, send them to the address below with fire relief fund in the designated line. We are not sure when we’ll be able to get mail again, but this can be used as a long term option.
Community Methodist Church
220 Junction RD
Ruidoso NM 88345.
Finally, I want to close with words from the prophet Habakkuk's words come to mind this morning…
“Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior. The Sovereign LORD is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to go on the heights."
Amid such massive devastation, may God continue to be our strength! May His peace reign over us all!
Best of All, God is With Us
Dustin McEwen
Pastor Community Methodist Church
