The Episcopal News just announced a huge loss for the local Episcopal community from the Montecito fire:
The raging Montecito wildfire has destroyed historic Mount Calvary Retreat House, staff and Santa Barbara County officials have confirmed.
The resident brothers, members of the Order of the Holy Cross, and staff are safe following evacuation, said Nancy Bullock, program director for Mount Calvary, speaking by phone from All Saints by-the-Sea Church in Montecito.
Bullock said that All Saints is currently working to determine if any parishioners have lost homes in the blaze, which has claimed more than 100 residences across 2,500 acres. Bullock's husband, Jeff, is rector of the parish.
Bishop J. Jon Bruno, who is in close telephone contact with clergy leaders in the Santa Barbara area, asks the prayers of the diocesan community for all those affected by the fire.
-- Martha Groves
I'm so sorry you lost your home. I loved that place.
Michael
I spent three wonderful days at that monastery in 1970. I would like to come back to the rebuilt monastery.
David Korn
I spent a very spiritual time on a youth retreat there in 1967 or early 1968, I returned about 5 years later to walk the gardens once more. Yesterday, I attempted to locate the retreat house again, but failed. Today, I googled it and found it gone. My intense sadness is impossible to relate. The memory of the sleeping quarters, the meeting room, and the time spent in prayer and meditation on the bench on the hill overlooking the mountains. These are memories that are still vivid, priceless and will stay with me forever. The setting was so perfect, I hope that plans are being formulated to rebuild on the site. Was anything saved? What a tragic loss. My prayers are with you all.
I am sadden by the lost of such a peaceful, holy and spiritual retreat home. I went there many times with my college youth group. the silent retreats, meals with the brothers, mountains, hikes, and fellowship will always be a part of my walk with the Lord.