The Bishop of Getafe, Mons. Ginés García Beltrán, has addressed a message to those affected by the wildfires that have struck several municipalities in the diocesan territory in recent days, expressing his closeness to the victims and thanking the work of emergency services, volunteers, and institutions that have participated in the firefighting and assistance efforts.
The western Sierra of Madrid, which largely belongs to the Diocese of Getafe, has been one of the areas most affected by the fire. The wildfires have forced the evacuation or confinement of thousands of residents and have caused damage to homes and businesses.
“Fire has once again become the protagonist this summer, a protagonist that does not illuminate, but destroys,” the prelate states in his message. He also notes that, although such catastrophes have recurred in recent years, on this occasion they have directly affected “our surroundings, our diocese.”
“There are people who have lost everything”
The bishop refers to the situation of those who have had to abandon their homes or remain confined due to the advance of the flames, and of those who, upon returning, have found their homes destroyed.
“There are people who have lost everything,” states Mons. García Beltrán.
Among the affected municipalities are Aldea del Fresno, Navas del Rey, Chapinería, Colmenar del Arroyo, Rozas de Puerto Real, Cadalso de los Vidrios, Cenicientos, Villa del Prado, Pelayos de la Presa, and San Martín de Valdeiglesias.
Call to continue the aid
In his message, the bishop thanks the response of those who have participated in the firefighting and relief efforts for the victims. “It is when solidarity, the best of the human heart, is manifested,” he notes.
Mons. García Beltrán also calls for the aid not to end when media attention on the wildfires fades. “How I would like the Church, our parishes, our communities, to be able to attend materially and spiritually to those who need it in the coming months,” he states.
The prelate also emphasizes the importance of accompanying those affected by the wildfire and encourages Christian communities to remain by their side. “Let us not fade when the media spotlight fades, but let us continue to be close, near to others, to be a helping hand, a fraternal face,” he exhorts.
The message concludes with a call to maintain solidarity with the victims and a prayer for those who have suffered the consequences of the wildfires and for all those who have collaborated in the relief efforts.