A group of over 40 individuals gathered in a small gray and brick church despite the rain to worship together. Hands joined in song as more people entered through the side entrance.
The Lifeline Fellowship Christian Center on Lake Avenue in Altadena, Calif., a spiritual home for many for over a decade, was destroyed by the Eaton fire in early January. Now, the congregation meets at a neighboring church about 2 miles away.
Shield of Faith Christian Center in Pasadena serves as a host church for the Lifeline Fellowship Christian Center after it was destroyed by the Eaton fire. (Ashley Carnahan / Fox News Digital)
The theme of Sunday’s message was “Beauty for Ashes.” Pastor Charles Dorsey led the congregation in prayer as they reflected on the recent loss of their church to the Eaton fire.
Margaret and Simeon Alexander, long-time members of Lifeline, shared their feelings of devastation upon learning of their church’s destruction. They emphasized the importance of Lifeline as their spiritual family.
“We were devastated,” Margaret said, expressing their deep sorrow. “We miss our church. Lifeline is our spiritual family.”
“We soon faced the reality that all things work together for good,” her husband Simeon added, finding solace in faith amidst the tragedy.
Congregants of the now-destroyed Lifeline Fellowship Christian Center gather during a rainy Sunday afternoon to worship. (Ashley Carnahan / Fox News Digital)
Theo Hawkins, the worship leader, initially struggled with attending service due to the overwhelming changes. Lifeline has been a pillar in the Altadena community for 19 years, offering support and free meals regularly.
“It’s a great community, very diverse, hardworking people. Families have owned property in the area for generations,” Pastor Dorsey commented. “It’s just a beautiful place to live and raise a family.”
He estimated that 19 members of Lifeline were displaced by the fire, with 13 losing their homes. The devastating Eaton blaze destroyed over 9,000 structures and scorched more than 14,000 acres, ranking as one of California’s deadliest wildfires.
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Dr. Lisa Dorsey outlined the phases in place for residents to return home, beginning with hazardous waste removal and followed by debris cleanup.
The only remaining structure of the Lifeline church is a purple and white cross that symbolizes hope and strength in the midst of loss.
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“The cross still stands,” Pastor Dorsey remarked. “It signifies our existence and our strength in the midst of sorrow.”
“Right now, the physical building of Lifeline is ashes. But the Lord promises beauty from ashes, and we’re thankful for that,” he concluded.
The Lifeline Fellowship Christian Center was burnt down by the Eaton fire in Altadena. (Fox News Digital / Ashley Carnahan)
A slightly burnt purple and white cross stands atop the Lifeline Fellowship Christian Center in Altadena. (Fox News Digital / Ashley Carnahan)
Some parishioners were able to assess the remnants of their church after service, while others are still awaiting their return. Plans to rebuild encourage singing, praying, and preaching on-site during the construction process.
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“We’re looking for that day…where we can watch the rebuilding process alongside our neighbors,” Pastor Dorsey expressed. “Altadena and Pasadena are communities rich in faith and love.”
Pastor Charles Dorsey preaches from the Shield of Faith Christian Center after the church he leads was burned down. (Ashley Carnahan / Fox News Digital)
Prior to the destruction caused by the Eaton fire, Pastor Dorsey felt compelled to deliver a message of moving forward in 2025. The timing became clear after the tragedy struck, demonstrating the resilience and unity of the community.
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“We may have lost our homes and church, but we haven’t lost each other,” Pastor Dorsey concluded, emphasizing the importance of finding beauty in the midst of destruction.
“Amen,” the congregation echoed in response. “Amen.”
