UPDATE: The Pasadena Jewish Temple and Center marked the somber one-year anniversary of the devastating Eaton Fire with a powerful memorial ceremony on January 6, 2026. Approximately 400 community members gathered at the site on North Altadena Drive, where their beloved temple once stood, to remember the 19 lives lost and the destruction of their sanctuary.
Under a large white tent, Rabbi Joshua Ratner addressed attendees, stating, “Tonight is our time to grieve for the loss we endured one year ago.” He urged the community to unite in mourning and to honor the memories of those impacted by the fire that destroyed homes and the temple itself.
During the emotional gathering, attendees participated in a collective act of remembrance. Children from the Louis B. Silver Religious School carried lanterns, symbolizing the light and hope that remains despite the tragedy. The ceremony also included the singing of mournful Kaddish prayers, as congregants reflected on the loss of their sanctuary, including the B’nai Simcha Community Preschool, which served 400 families.
Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger, present at the event, expressed gratitude to the Jewish community for their resilience. “Tonight, I look at this as a time of hope,” she remarked, highlighting the importance of unity in the face of adversity.
As the congregation finds a new path forward, Rabbi Ratner has invited members to contribute to the Tree of Life project, where colored stones will be placed to symbolize their memories and hopes for future rebuilding. The temple plans to reconstruct its facilities over the next three to four years, with congregants celebrating Shabbat in temporary locations, including Mayfield Senior School and First United Methodist Church.
The impact of the Eaton Fire extended far beyond the temple grounds, affecting between 45,000 and 59,000 Jewish households across the region, totaling nearly 147,000 individuals. The Jewish Federation Los Angeles has raised over $9 million for wildfire relief, with significant contributions coming from outside the state.
In a poignant moment, Theresa Brekan, the temple’s operations manager, shared her emotional experience of returning to the cleared lot. “There were so many memories in this place, and I can still feel the love,” she said, encapsulating the deep connection the community has to their former home.
As the Pasadena Jewish Temple and Center reflects on a year of loss and resilience, it stands as a testament to the strength of community bonds in the face of tragedy. The journey toward healing continues, as members look forward to rebuilding their sacred space and honoring the memories of those they lost.
Stay tuned for further updates on the recovery efforts and upcoming events as this community works to reclaim its identity and heritage.
