27/07/2026
We have received a Call to Prayer from Pastor Robert Despré, President of the National Federation of the Assemblies of God in France, inviting us to join in prayer on behalf of the Gironde region.
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« Dear brothers and sisters,
As you have seen in the media, the Gironde department (33) has been struck since Wednesday by a massive, unprecedented fire. As of midday on Saturday, July 25, the prefecture reports that 32,700 hectares have been burned and 140 homes destroyed—according to initial, provisional figures—with 1,400 firefighters deployed. The Ministry of the Interior estimates that approximately 167,000 people have been displaced in this department alone, and the fire front is now located about twenty kilometers from the Bordeaux ring road. The Assemblies of God Biblical Theology Institute (ITB) is situated on the edge of the affected area. AoG churches threatened by toxic smoke have closed their premises to the public last Sunday. A pastor from the region wrote to us: "We hope the fire will be brought under control in the coming days and that this situation will not drag on, as the evacuees are going through a difficult time: their work lives are disrupted, and managing their children is a challenge. The hardest part will likely come later: providing moral and spiritual support to those who have lost their homes or possessions. For our part, we have offered our building to local authorities, even though they do not need it at the moment." A wonderful spirit of solidarity has emerged, and the prevailing attitude is truly remarkable. Overall, the Church is doing well and remains at peace. We keep our eyes fixed on the Lord, convinced that He is with us—like the fourth man in the furnace.
We invite all churches to set aside a specific time for prayer during the services in the coming days, for those who have been evacuated and families who have lost everything; for the firefighters and emergency responders on the ground; for the authorities making urgent decisions; and for our churches and our brothers and sisters in the region. Thank you! »