Community Minister for Fire Affected Region, Presbytery of Yarra Yarra

Twelve months ago, in the events of what’s become known as ‘Black Saturday’ the lives of individuals and many communities have changed forever. As a leading psychologist said soon after: “This disaster is not an ‘accommodation problem’ (i.e. losing one’s house) It is a ‘whole of life problem’ Everything changes”

Over the last year I have seen people and communities show incredible resilience and courage as they have grappled with all of the changes they’ve faced. Typically many people began the process of recovery full of adrenaline and much activity. They were determined to get things ‘back to normal’ and to rebuild their house.

Yet this is a long distance marathon, not a short sprint. Basic questions needed to be faced such as: do we want to return to our home; and/or where do we live otherwise? On top of these there were issues with Insurance companies and Councils; negotiations with architects and builders; as well as new ‘Bushfire Attack Levels’ (BAL) for each site. Recovery involves practical, emotional and spiritual elements; a ‘whole of life’ approach.

There are signs of hope. New life is coming to the bush, and the frames of new houses are beginning to appear. Gradually, communities are coming together and people are planning for the future with hope. In Jesus Christ, I believe in a God who heals, those who’ve been affected by the fires have been scarred at many levels. May we continue to pray for them, and be the hands and feet, and listening ear of the God who binds up their wounds.