Community Rallies Together as Pacific Palisades Marks Return to Church Fire Site

Residents of Pacific Palisades in Los Angeles County gathered on Good Friday to commemorate the site of a church that stood for 103 years before it was ravaged by wildfires in January. The Community United Methodist Church was a cornerstone for many in the community, but now it lays in ruins, reduced to rubble and ashes.

The Church That Stood for Generations

Pastor John Shaver, who has led the church for only six months prior to its destruction, expressed a strong sentiment about the church’s future. He emphasized that the Community United Methodist Church will thrive as a “community without walls” until it is rebuilt. This declaration reflects the resilience and unity of the community.

“As we share those ancient words of hope — ‘Christ is Risen!’ — we connect deeply with our church family and everyone fighting challenges in the Pacific Palisades, Altadena, and beyond,” Shaver stated. He added that this collective spirit provides the strength needed to persevere and rebuild.

A Good Friday of Reflection and Hope

On that somber yet hopeful Good Friday, Pastor Shaver convened with a small group of community members at the devastated church site. The gathering included a symbolic cross walk through the neighborhood, where they paused at nine significant locations to read Bible verses that represented Jesus Christ’s journey.

Shaver remarked, “This Easter Sunday, while we face significant challenges ahead, we give thanks for the resilience we find through the resurrection.” His words offered a comforting reminder of faith and determination to the gathered individuals.

Rebuilding with Love and Hope

The pastor’s vision extends beyond mere reconstruction. He articulated a desire to embody God’s love and hope through actions and words, building connections within the broader Los Angeles community. Shaver aims to ensure the church remains a beacon of unity and service.

A Legacy of Community and Connection

The Community United Methodist Church, established by the founders of Pacific Palisades, has witnessed decades of weddings, funerals, holiday celebrations, and community gatherings. It played a vital role in uniting residents through various arts, music, and cultural initiatives inspired by the Chautauqua movement of the 1920s.

Despite the fire’s devastation, the congregation has continued to hold services at different locations. The Good Friday gathering marked their first visit back to the site since the catastrophic event.

Remembering Those Lost

During the cross walk, Pastor Shaver honored the memory of congregants and community members lost in the Palisades Fire, including 85-year-old Annette Rossilli. The tragedy has affected many residents deeply, with Shaver himself having lost his home in the flames.

He poignantly reflected on the fragility of life, stating, “It reminds us of how easily we take what we have for granted.” This recognition of loss amplifies the community’s resolve to rebuild and support one another.

Preserving the Past Through Reconstruction

Although the church structure is gone, firefighters managed to save significant artifacts, including a metal cross and stone tiles from the original building. Pastor Shaver confirmed plans to incorporate these elements into whatever new church emerges, symbolizing the community’s enduring spirit.

Gathering Strength from Shared Experience

Thomas Knoll, a Pacific Palisades resident who does not attend the church but joined the memorial, expressed a similar sentiment. He described the gathering as a poignant farewell to the town, framing it as a “funeral” of sorts for the community itself. Like many, Knoll faced the devastating loss of his home.

He stated, “The tale of crucifixion and resurrection resonates here. This town will rebuild, but it will take time.” His words echo the collective hope and determination felt by the community members.

A Beacon of Hope in Times of Tragedy

As the ashes settle, the spirit of Pacific Palisades remains unbroken. The community stands strong, united in prayer and purpose as they face the road ahead. The resilience displayed by Pastor Shaver and the residents shows that, while the structure may be gone, the church’s heart lives on in the people it served.

In a time marked by loss, the promise of new beginnings shines brightly in this community’s shared faith and love. As they look toward the future, the phrase