The Chrysalis Initiative: One congregation's long-term response to a devastating fire

Watch a video from the Rocky Mountain Synod on Ascension Lutheran’s response to the Marshall Fire.

On Dec. 30, 2021, the Marshall Fire, a destructive wildfire and urban conflagration whipped by sustained winds, swept across Boulder County, Colo., engulfing areas of the towns of Louisville and Superior. The fire completely destroyed the homes of several families who are members of Christ the Servant Lutheran Church in Louisville, including pastor Stephanie Lord’s. Numerous other members’ homes were damaged.

This video—created by Mary Stoneback, videographer at Stoneback Media and deacon for faithful community at Ascension Lutheran Church in Colorado Springs—highlights the Chrysalis Initiative, the congregation’s long-term, survivor-centered response to the needs of the many following the destructive fire. The video was commissioned by the Rocky Mountain Synod as part of its 2022 synod assembly.

To watch another short film about the fire and learn more about the Chrysalis Initiative and how to help, visit ctsonline.org/chrysalis-initiative.