Myrtle Beach fire reminds
California minister of
infernos in 2003 and 2006
By Bob Davis, Special to The Layman, April 24, 2009
In October 2003 – and again in October 2006 – wildfires fueled by Santa Ana winds devastated San Diego County. I was reminded of these events when reading news reports of the wildfires raging through Myrtle Beach, S.C. Though I was grateful to read that no injuries had been reported, 69 homes had been destroyed.
It is difficult to imagine how fast and destructive wildfires can be. Low humidity and plenty of dry, dead plants combine in a recipe for disaster. The smallest spark can set off a huge inferno. Once started, the flames quickly are out of control, spreading rapidly at the whim of the winds – winds that the firestorm itself generates.
I was serving Westminster Presbyterian Church in Escondido during the 2003 fires. A family in our congregation experienced a horrific tragedy: Ashleigh Roach, 16, was killed. Her older sister, Allyson Roach, was severely burned – so severely that a doctor pulled me aside to tell me she would not survive. Eighty-five percent of her body had first- and second-degree burns. She was wrapped in bandages so that only her eyes and nose were visible.
The Rev. Bob Davis
Davis is pastor of Chula Vista Presbyterian Church in Chula Vista, Calif.,
Would God answer prayers?
We put our hands on Allyson’s wrapped head that day. I remember praying out loud, asking God to heal her body, to show us His glory by making her a tangible witness of His sovereign power. “We know you are able,” I prayed. I also remember thinking –and here is a confession –”I sure hope these are not empty words.” I walked out of the hospital that day wondering how God would answer all of our prayers.
The Roaches had experienced a firestorm from “convection” heat. Essentially, the canyon behind their home heated up without actually breaking into flame. Then, all of a sudden, at one moment, the whole canyon exploded in flame and rushed up hundreds and hundreds of yards in seconds – one estimate was that the flames were moving at about 60 mph. The energy shot the fire up and out of the head of the canyon like a flash flood of flame – right at the Roach’s home. As they opened the door to get out, they were blasted with heat, flaming embers, smoke and debris. To give you an idea of the kind of heat involved, fire-proof safes melted.
How Presbyterians helped
So many times the analyses of what’s happening in the life of the Presbyterian Church (USA) focuses on what is not working – let me take this time to share with you what does work. The response to the fires brought out the best in Presbyterians.
First, we had the comfort of being able to ask for and receive help from people we knew. All of the congregations of San Diego Presbytery were in immediate contact; most were represented at Ashleigh’s memorial services. Local pastors, elders and members went out of their way to help us: providing pulpit supply to give us a break, prayer support, material blessings for those who were evacuated or who had lost their homes. Though this is not unique to Presbyterians, breaking bread together as a presbytery prior to the fire meant we were not working with strangers, we were being loved by friends.
Second, Presbyterians had an incredible opportunity to proclaim the gospel into a moment. We were able to talk openly with hurting people about how God was in the midst of the smoke and ashes with us. Wonderfully, it was not just the pastors speaking. The work that we had done training with the Essential Tenets helped our elders and members have confidence to share their faith boldly.
Third, Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA) was amazing. Within hours, while fires still blazed and thick smoke seeped in through closed windows, PDA was on scene. Their counsel about how to minister in the midst of tragedy, what to expect in the short and long terms, the resources they made available, and their servants’ hearts were a tremendous blessing.
Fourth, the connections we had with Presbyterians around the country were incredibly comforting. Tears were shed as letters and prayers poured in from Presbyterians in New York, Florida, Alabama, Indiana, Washington and many other places too numerous to list. It is one thing to hear on the news that people around the country want to help; it’s another thing to receive notes personally addressed offering prayers and encouragement. The message was clear: You are not alone. We are with you. It meant more than words can express.
If you are wondering what you can do: donate food, clothing and money. Intercede in prayer. In addition, send a copy of the prayer raised in intercession. Include the signatures and a picture of all those who have gathered to pray. Write a note or e-mail of encouragement, knowing that it may be a few days or weeks before it can even be read.
And Allyson?
God healed Allyson.
Allyson’s spirit and courage have been incredible. She has endured literally dozens of surgeries. She has persisted and persevered through trial after trial, step after step. It has not been an easy road, but this much is true: the fire left its mark, but it has not defined Allyson. She has more than survived. She is living.
Allyson has been an inspiration for the community. Her “can-do” character, her genuinely encouraging personality, and her easy laughter have lifted up many around her. She went back to college. She is working as a photographer. She was a bridesmaid at her brother’s wedding. She is active in the community. She and her family are working together with the medical community to minister to others who have incurred severe burn injuries. She has had a full life since being dismissed as dead. And now?
Allyson is married.
A little more than five years from that October Sunday when she was written off as dead, her family and friends gathered to celebrate the gift of life God gave Allyson and her husband, Chris. Who would have imagined?
God is able to do what is impossible in human eyes. How great is our God!
The Rev. Robert “Bob” Davis is the minister of Chula Vista Presbyterian Church in Chula Vista, Calif.