The Orthodox Church of Crete has launched a drive to collect food supplies for residents affected by large-scale wildfires that swept across the Greek island at the end of July, the Church said on its website.

Church representatives will gather olive oil in monasteries and parishes across all Crete’s metropolises. The collected oil will then be distributed to those in need through the Metropolis of Limnos, Sývrithos and Sfakia.

The decision was made on August 12 during a meeting of the Holy Provincial Synod of the Church of Crete. The Church said it will also continue praying for those who died in the fires.

The situation has been especially severe in the Rethymno area, where the fires were accompanied by the evacuation of thousands of residents and caused major damage to homes, agricultural land and natural areas. According to the European Civil Protection service, the largest fire in the Rethymno region covered about 5,200 hectares.

Two firefighters died on July 29 while battling the blaze near Nea Krya Vrisi outside Rethymno. Rescue workers were reportedly trapped by a rapidly spreading fire.

For many residents, the impact of the wildfires extends beyond destroyed houses. Fires destroyed farmland and olive groves—one of the most important sources of income for many Cretans. Church officials said collecting olive oil is therefore practical, as some families that lost crops and trees may not have enough oil stock of their own.

Local media report that damage assessments are still ongoing. Some affected residents are expected to receive compensation, but restoring farms could take a long time.

Meanwhile, church life on the island continues. In August, the Church of Crete is also preparing to mark the 60th anniversary of the return to Crete of the relic of the holy Apostle Titus—the first bishop of Crete—after it was brought from Venice. From August 22 to 23, the shrine is to be transported to ancient Gortyn and then to Týmbaki, according to the Synod’s statement.