Spokane Wildfires Force Evacuations of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Parishioners

SPOKANE — Fast-moving wildfires in the Spokane, Washington, area forced the evacuation of parishioners from Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church after the Old Trails Fire rapidly spread through northern Spokane County over the weekend.

As shared by the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago, the fire ignited on Saturday amid high winds exceeding 40 mph, extreme heat, and dry conditions before crossing the Spokane River into densely populated neighborhoods. 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.

"The sudden and unpredictable nature of these devastating wildfires reminds us how fragile life can be," Metr. Gerasimos said. "... 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."

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.

"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," Fr. Daniel said, adding that emergency crews had worked through the night to combat more than a dozen active wildfires, though containment remained limited.

The fires have burned nearly 8,000 acres and destroyed more than 600 structures, making this one of the region's most destructive wildfire seasons in recent years.

"Holy Trinity remains standing literally, but also figuratively," the Metropolis' release states. "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."

Previously, the UOJ reported that restoration work at St. Theodosius Orthodox Christian Cathedral has reached several significant milestones as crews continue repairing the historic church following a devastating fire in 2024.