A dense cloud of smoke covered the sky over southern Chile yesterday, as thousands of families in the towns of Lirquén and Penco faced the aftermath of recent wildfires.
The fires have killed at least 20 people and burned more than 34,000 hectares, affecting communities across the region, including faith-based groups.
Images shared by platforms such as Chile Evangélico show the destruction of churches that previously served as places of worship and community support for local residents.
Churches reduced to rubble
Fueled by extreme weather conditions, the fires spread rapidly through residential areas and places of worship alike. In the upper areas of Lirquén, including the Ríos de Chile neighborhood, residents reported that the fire advanced at a speed described as overwhelming.
Local reports and videos circulating on social media confirm that several Evangelical congregations lost their buildings.
Footage shared by Chile Evangélico shows burned church structures, metal chairs damaged by heat, musical instruments destroyed by fire and partially burned Bibles, illustrating the extent of the damage.
“It was overwhelming. I tried to protect what I could, but the flames reached my area very quickly,” said a resident of Lirquén.
For Evangelical communities, the damage extends beyond physical structures. Many churches functioned as gathering places and centers for social support in vulnerable neighborhoods. Authorities also reported the destruction of a historic church in Lirquén built in 1913, representing a loss to the area’s religious heritage.
Community response
Many families, including members of local congregations, lost their homes in the fires. The case of Matías Arriagada, who lost his father and a family pet, has drawn national attention.
Despite the damage, residents have begun organizing assistance efforts. “We lost everything, but we are alive,” has been a common sentiment among those affected.
Faith-based organizations, including Caritas and other Christian aid groups, are providing assistance to people impacted by the fires in the Ñuble and Biobío regions.
Originally published by Diario Cristiano, Christian Daily International's Spanish edition.
