UPDATE: The Pacific Palisades Presbyterian Church gathered on January 6, 2026, for a poignant service marking the one-year anniversary of the devastating fire that destroyed their church. The ceremony, held at Brentwood Presbyterian Church, emphasized the duality of grief and hope as the congregation reflects on their journey over the past year.
“I hate those memories,” said Pastor Rev. Matthew Hardin to a congregation of displaced members, sharing the emotional weight of the anniversary. The pastor recalled the chaotic morning when he witnessed smoke billowing from the hills near his home and rushed to evacuate children from Marquez Elementary School.
Hardin recounted the pain of watching his church engulfed in flames on the news and the subsequent struggles with insurance and community connections as many members relocated. “It’s OK to feel both at the same time,” he reassured attendees, highlighting the complexity of emotions surrounding their loss.
During the service, Associate Pastor Rev. Grace Park affirmed their commitment to rebuilding the church at 15821 Sunset Blvd. “We have the spirit to rebuild, but there’s a lot to consider,” she explained, acknowledging the challenges of funding and logistics. Despite these hurdles, Park emphasized the overwhelming support received from around the globe, stating, “It’s been a very difficult year … but also a year of hope.”
As the congregation moved through the evening, prayers were projected on screens, demonstrating their resilience and unity in faith. Cynthia Block, a church elder for over 23 years, expressed the importance of maintaining their deep bonds, saying, “We want to get that back.”
Attendees like Sharon Browning reflected on the emotional toll of losing their church family. “It has been a challenge for us,” she shared, noting the difficulty in keeping in touch with displaced parishioners. However, she praised the warmth of the Brentwood community for their generous hospitality.
The gathering showcased a spirit of determination as the Pacific Palisades community continues to navigate their path forward. As they remember the pain of the past, they also cultivate hope for the future, embodying the message that a church is more than just a building; it is a collective of faith and support.
As the congregation looks ahead, the focus remains on rebuilding both their church and their community ties. For now, the journey continues, fueled by faith and the shared commitment to rise from the ashes of the past.
