A meetinghouse of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Pacific Palisades, California, has reopened following repairs after last year’s wildfire, according to an April 15 announcement. The building at 575 Los Liones Drive was heavily damaged by smoke and ash but survived the fire that destroyed much of the surrounding area.
The reopening is significant for members who lost homes and gathering spaces during the January 2025 wildfires. For many, returning to their chapel marks a step toward recovery. “Returning to our chapel after a year of work is a joyful milestone that fills us with renewed hope for the future,” said Brian Ames, stake president.
After extensive renovation work on the building’s interior and as local vegetation begins to recover, church members gathered for a rededication service on April 12. Los Angeles media toured the renovated building before worship services began. Kayce Mammen, a resident affected by the fires, said: “The feeling of loss was overwhelming. Now there is hope that we can reclaim the lost pieces of our lives, working together in a single place, continuing to recover as a community.” Ames added: “Even in our excitement, we carry a deep awareness of the collective grief that remains for those still navigating the difficult path of rebuilding their own lives.”
Many congregation members remain displaced from their homes but now have access again to their place of worship and community support. Mammen said: “Many of our members still do not have a home, but now at least they have a gathering place to continue the process of rebuilding.” Ames further stated: “We believe as we come together, every step forward — no matter how small — invites more light and healing into the hearts of the entire Palisades community.”
Following last year’s fires across Los Angeles County, church members from Pasadena, Pacific Palisades and Altadena met in February 2025 with President Jeffrey R. Holland from The Quorum of Twelve Apostles for comfort and guidance. “We cry with you. We pray with you. You’re not isolated. You’re not forgotten,” Holland told attendees.
The Church operates worldwide under leadership including its First Presidency and Quorum of Twelve Apostles who seek divine counsel according to its official website. Local congregations are managed by volunteer leaders serving limited terms without pay according to its official website. The faith emphasizes Jesus Christ as Savior while inviting individuals toward faith and baptism according to its official website.
Globally there are over 17 million members across more than 30,000 congregations in over 160 countries according to its official website. Temples serve as sacred venues for ordinances supporting beliefs such as eternal families according to its official website.
