Community unites in hope after church fire during Good Friday cross walk

In January, a wildfire swept through Pacific Palisades, California, destroying the Community United Methodist Church along with many homes in the area. This fire caused widespread devastation in the community, displacing nearly 80% of the church's congregation, including Pastor John Shaver, who had only recently begun leading the church. As Easter approached, Pastor Shaver and a small group of congregants gathered at the charred remains of their church on Good Friday to hold a cross walk, a symbolic event representing their faith and resilience amidst the tragedy. The cross walk took them from the site where their church once stood to the nearby bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, allowing them to reflect and come together as a community during a time of loss. Each stop on their journey involved reading Bible verses to commemorate Christ’s suffering, which became a poignant reminder of the hope and strength that they sought as they faced the aftermath of the fire. Attendees at the cross walk shared their personal losses and stories of remembrance, with Shaver drawing attention to his own home, which was also lost in the flames. He emphasized the importance of not taking for granted the things they had before the tragedy struck, noting how the community's spirit remained strong despite the challenges ahead. Echoing Shaver’s sentiments, community member Adriana Ruhman's search for remnants of her home, such as a tile decorated by her children, captured the essence of hope amidst despair. This event served not only as a moment of reflection on the past but also as a pledge to rebuild their church and community, keeping faith alive until they were able to construct a new place for worship. The congregation continues to hold services at temporary locations, ensuring that the spirit of their church remains active and engaged within the community. Pastor Shaver's assertion that the church will persist as a 'community without walls' underscores the determination and unity of those involved. They remain committed to serving their neighbors, sharing love and hope through their actions while awaiting the reconstruction of their church. Each effort demonstrated during this challenging period emphasizes the interconnectedness of faith, resilience, and community support, leading them to contemplate both the beauty of past traditions and the hopeful journey that lies ahead. As they moved towards the bluffs, Pastor Shaver and his congregation members knew that the path to recovery would be lengthy, but their commitment to rebuilding their lives and church remains unwavering. During this emotionally charged moment, they expressed gratitude for the support received and a collective hope for the future, binding them further together in faith and compassion as they navigate the new chapter in their lives.