Pasadena Community Rallies After Devastating Wildfires

Mennonite church partners with Episcopal church to provide shelter and aid for displaced residents

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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In 2025, a series of wildfires swept through Southern California, destroying nearly 18,000 homes and structures in the Pasadena area. The Palisades fire received the most attention, but other blazes like those in Runyon Canyon and Eaton Canyon also caused widespread damage and displacement. Over 200,000 people were evacuated, and 31 people died directly from the fires, with an estimated 450 more deaths related to the disaster. The Pasadena Mennonite Church was contaminated by toxic ash, forcing the congregation to temporarily relocate to an Episcopal church, which also became a hub for donations and volunteer efforts.

Why it matters

The wildfires highlighted the resilience and community spirit of Pasadena residents, as organizations and faith groups quickly mobilized to provide shelter, food, and other resources for those impacted. However, the rebuilding process will take years, and the fires have raised questions about public safety, bail reform, and the unique challenges facing autonomous vehicle companies like Waymo that operate in the area.

The details

In the aftermath of the fires, Pasadena Mennonite Church partnered with All Saints Episcopal Church to host worship services and coordinate relief efforts. Many other nonprofits and community groups also expanded their services to include rapid rehousing, resource distribution, and other assistance. While the initial volunteer and donation response was overwhelming, the long-term recovery will require sustained support.

  • The Palisades fire and other wildfires broke out in Southern California in 2025 during a dry windstorm.
  • In January 2026, it has been one year since the devastating fires.

The players

Pasadena Mennonite Church

A local Mennonite congregation whose church building was contaminated by toxic ash from the wildfires, forcing them to temporarily relocate to an Episcopal church.

All Saints Episcopal Church

A church in Pasadena that provided meeting space for the displaced Pasadena Mennonite congregation and also became a hub for donations and volunteer efforts in the aftermath of the wildfires.

Hillary and Dan Write

A Pasadena couple whose home was not destroyed but still required extensive cleaning and remediation due to the ash contamination. They became leaders in welcoming and supporting their neighbors as they returned to the neighborhood.

Mennonite Disaster Service

An organization that will be assisting with the long-term rebuilding efforts in Pasadena, using the Pasadena Mennonite Church as its headquarters.

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What they’re saying

“We hope we don't go back to normal. We have the opportunity to engage with each other in a way we hadn't before.”

— Hillary Write (anabaptistworld.org)

What’s next

Mennonite Disaster Service will be coordinating long-term rebuilding efforts in the Pasadena area, using the Pasadena Mennonite Church as its headquarters.

The takeaway

The Pasadena community's response to the devastating wildfires showcased the power of faith-based and community-driven efforts to provide immediate aid and support a resilient recovery. As the rebuilding process continues, the community has an opportunity to strengthen connections and reimagine what 'normal' looks like going forward.