[Episcopal News Service] The Episcopal Church in Navajoland is calling for prayers as a wildfire that sparked June 28, 2025, on the Navajo Nation in northeastern Arizona continues to burn. The wildfire, called the Oak Ridge Fire, has so far burned 10,623 acres and is 0% contained.
“Our church remains open for prayer and emotional support by those impacted by the fire,” the communications office for the Farmington, New Mexico-based diocese wrote in a July 1 update on Navajoland’s website. “We invite anyone in need of comfort or connection to join us in prayer.”
The Navajo Nation
The Navajo Nation is the largest Native American tribe by both land and tribal enrollment. With the exception of Colorado, its reservation occupies a large portion of the Four Corners region. This includes portions of northeastern Arizona, northwestern New Mexico and southeastern Utah.
The cause of the Oak Ridge Fire is unknown. Officials have confirmed that it was human-caused, possibly by wood haulers. It ignited 8 miles southwest of Window Rock, Navajo Nation’s capital,
Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren declared a state of emergency on June 29.
People affected by the Oak Ridge Fire
So far, 300-500 people, including some Episcopalians in the diocese, have evacuated their homes, and 508 firefighters are on the ground.
“We also want to express our sincere gratitude to the firefighters and first responders who work tirelessly around the clock to keep our communities safe,” the update said.
Navajo Nation Animal is also sheltering pets and livestock. Some Navajoland Episcopalians’ sheep camps have been affected by the fire, according to the update.
Good Shepherd Mission, an Episcopal church in Fort Defiance, Arizona, 6.7 miles north of Window Rock, is closest to the wildfire.
Shelters in Fort Defiance and Ganado are providing food, water and emotional support services to evacuees.
The Episcopal Church in Navajoland’s website will post updates as more information becomes available.
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