Just spoke with Fr Alexis Lisenko who is staying with his sister in San Pablo, (Sf Bay Area). They evacuated at 4pm, having a 30 minute warning. They stayed at the Manton Elementary school red cross shelter until 7pm, until leaving for friends and family. They took the relics, a few icons, personal belongings, one computer and laptop, and Fr Alexis has his flashdrive with all of his translations. All have gone to friends and family: Abbot Meletios, Fr Nektarios, and Fr... are in Belmont, CA; Fr Cosmas and Fr Innocent are with family in Sacramento; Fr Photios is with guests in San Jose (and cat Fluffy?); Fr Andrew took the 2 dogs to a vet in Redding who voluntered to board them for free for 3 days. Fr Andrew will be staying at the Red Cross shelter, and will be the monastery's local connection for news. There are reports that the monastery buildings are still unharmed, but this has not been verified, since the fire is still 0% contained. They will not be able to return for at least a few days. They are very sad that they had to leave behind the many chickens and the cats that had run off. They are very grateful for the love, concern and prayers from everyone, and will give updates as they know them.

Is the cause of the fire know? Or, is that still awaiting word?

Initially I heard lightening, which makes sense given the number of individual fires that are burning.

August 20, 2012 7:00 pm Acres Burned: 16.280 acres
Containment 16,280 acres - 30% contained
Structures Destroyed: 7 structures destroyed
Threatened: 3,065 residences, 20 commercial properties and 300 outbuildings

... Fr Alexis called me last night and said that a neighbor went to look at the property. Although it is burned all around, all of the buildings are standing and unburnt!...
The danger is not over, because of the fire's front in the south (has burnt 19,627 acres), but right now, still safe and sound...

Firefighters protect the Monastery of St. John in Manton from the Ponderosa Fire, Sunday.

Fire retardant orange on the surfaces.

“We will be returning very soon to inspect the property. As far as we know, all the buildings were saved, and the facility has provided a good place for the fire department to use as a base while they continue their heroic and much appreciated efforts for the larger community. We wish to extend especial thanks to the many firefighters who have risked their safety in this effort, and we are glad that the monastery grounds could be of service. The fires continue to travel other places and threaten other homes and lives, so please continue to pray for all who are affected by this. There are still many who are in danger.