Support for St. Mary’s Court
Scene from Tuesday, November 15, 2022
This past Tuesday, we at Western had a new opportunity to see God at work at 24th and G Streets, NW. The two-alarm fire across the street at St. Mary’s Court was heartbreaking, chaotic, and tragic for those who were displaced. Although six residents were hospitalized for smoke inhalation, no one was seriously hurt. At least twelve emergency vehicles kept the block closed down for most of the day, as the fire department worked to secure the apartment building and bring residents to safety.
Western provided a shelter-in-place for those who were evacuated. Close to 120 residents gathered in our courtyard room and sanctuary. You can imagine their shock; many left without coats, walkers or prescription medications. We also hosted fire department officials, Red Cross staff and volunteers, members of the DC Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency (HSEMA) and Department on Aging, representatives from District Council member Brooke Pinto, and support from GWU.
Mr. Rogers always told children to “look for the helpers” in times of crisis. You would have been inspired to see God working through all the helpers in our larger community coming together, including Miriam’s Kitchen staff, who doubled their evening meal to feed displaced St. Mary’s residents. Sterling and Shenella provided support throughout the day and stayed into the evening, ensuring that our building remained a safe, welcoming place. Special thanks to Marilyn M for coming over to offer friendship and support. By nine p.m., residents had returned home or to alternate accommodations. Western Church become sanctuary for our neighbors on a new level. You may find out more details from this wusa9 report.
As our neighbors at St. Mary’s Court continue to recover from the trauma of their experience, they still need our support. In partnership with St. Stephen-Martyr Church, St. Paul’s K Street and Western, Foggy Bottom West End Village has established a fund for the sake of helping residents find wholeness after the fire. Funds may be used for everything from health care to new furniture or clothing, or for needs to be determined. Western has established a line item from within our regular giving; you may click here to contribute; please designate “St. Mary’s Court.”
In this season of giving thanks, and in a time when overwhelm seems so close, I am grateful to serve a church that can host a community sharing God’s love and compassion in times of crisis. Though we never wish for crisis, it’s why we’re church.
With gratitude for helpers and blessings to each of you this season,
Laura