Bishop Edward J. Weisenburger | Diocese of Tucson website

The community of San Carlos in eastern Arizona is reeling from the aftermath of a devastating fire. The Watch Fire ignited last week, scorching more than 2,000 acres. Authorities have reported that more than a dozen homes were destroyed and over 75 people displaced.

San Carlos is home to the San Carlos Apache Tribe. Several community buildings immediately became havens for residents, including the Saint Charles Apache Mission Church. Bishop Edward Weisenburger traveled to San Carlos to celebrate Mass at the mission. He stated, “Despite the tragedy caused by the Watch Fire, a powerful community of faith gathered to celebrate for Sunday Mass.” The mission recently received four religious sisters from India who will serve the community.

Within hours of the fire, Catholic Community Services (CCS) launched a donation drive to collect items ranging from clothing to canned goods. On Saturday, July 13, people from throughout the diocese dropped off donations at Saint Augustine Cathedral in downtown Tucson. Thanks were extended to CCS, the Knights of Columbus, and St. Vincent de Paul for facilitating the drive.

In a social media post, the San Carlos Apache Tribe Emergency Response Commission thanked the community for its generosity and said donations were at full capacity. Individuals wanting to support those displaced are kindly asked to consider making monetary donations. More information can be found at https://diocesetucson.org/emergency-relief.