A story of an Altadena Church spared in Eaton Fire
We’re deeply grateful to share that the Christian Science Church in Altadena, near Pasadena, California, was unharmed during the recent Eaton Fire. Despite the fire’s devastating impact on the area, the church remained largely untouched by the flames.
The scene was extraordinary. Buildings directly next to and across from the church were destroyed, yet this peaceful sanctuary stood firm. The story has drawn media attention, shedding light on this “hidden gem” in Southern California.
From the Church:
“The day after the Eaton fire in Altadena, we were sent a video shared by a church member. In it, our church stood tall and strong, even as nearby buildings were lost to the flames. We are deeply grateful that our edifice was not destroyed. And even more, we are reminded that “The structure of Truth and Love…” (Mary Baker Eddy) cannot be destroyed.
CHURCH. The structure of Truth and Love; whatever rests upon and proceeds from divine Principle.
The Church is that institution, which affords proof of its utility and is found elevating the race, rousing the dormant understanding from material beliefs to the apprehension of spiritual ideas and the demonstration of divine Science, thereby casting out devils, or error, and healing the sick.
Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, p. 583:12–19
We pray that our Altadena Church will fulfill its promise to “afford proof of its utility” in the coming months and years.
Although the edifice was not destroyed, we were not able to occupy it. During the last few months, various contractors have been doing minor repairs and deep cleaning our edifice at 942 E Altadena Drive. We held services on Zoom while eagerly waiting to hold services in our church in our dear community.
We are happy to share that we have reopened for in-person services, and, for those who need to join us remotely, we will continue to offer Zoom access to all of our services. We join in prayer for the full restoration of our neighborhood. In the spirit of support and fellowship, we have offered the use of our edifice to those churches in need of a space for worship. We continue to listen for God’s direction as we seek more ways to assist in the rebuilding of our beloved community.
Thank you for all your prayers and support. It’s been a long road, but we’ve truly felt God’s presence and your love throughout this journey.”
– First Church of Christ, Scientist, Altadena
Gratitude for Prayers and Protection
The Prayer that Heals community thanks all the caring people who are making a difference with the Pacific Palisades and Eaton Fires. We are especially grateful for the protection of the Christian Science Church in Altadena, for their faith through the flames, and the many expressions of love and support that have poured in.
Moments like these remind us of the power of prayer, the strength of community, and the ever-present care of God. May this story of an Altadena Church spared in Eaton Fire continue to inspire hope, healing, and trust in divine protection, as we continue to pray for this community.
More Resources & Inspiration
Read more testimonials and watch video in Prayers for California Fires in our “Power of Healing Prayer” section on this SoCal website.
LA fires claimed places of worship, but congregations still are helping others – from the Christian Science Monitor
You are welcome to read or listen to examples of protection and restoration from around the world in weekly and monthly magazines on JSH-Online.
