A remarkable sight greeted students and faculty at Pepperdine University as they grappled with the aftermath of the Franklin Fire that swept through Malibu, California. A 20-foot tall white wooden cross, steadfastly overlooking the campus, emerged unscathed from the inferno that charred over 4,000 acres nearby. The survival of this cross has come to symbolize hope and resilience for the university community during these challenging times.
The Franklin Fire ignited on December 9, 2024, prompting emergency responses that placed many in the area on edge. Pepperdine University had to suspend regular operations and initiate shelter-in-place measures as the blaze spread. Fortunately, while there were reports of some structural damage around the campus, no injuries were recorded, and it seems the fire is no longer a direct threat to the university grounds.
Last Wednesday, the administration shared a heartwarming image of the cross standing proudly amid the charred landscape on social media. Many observers noted that its resilience against the flames served as a powerful reminder of faith amid adversity. In a statement from the university, a representative expressed deep gratitude: “As I got closer, I began to get teary-eyed. … I am grateful to God that he spared Pepperdine and this cross, that burned down during the Woolsey fire and had to be replaced.”
This cross, a poignant testament of faith, was first erected in December 2018 by members of the Sigma Chi fraternity to honor Alaina Housley, a tragedy victim from the shooting at the Borderline Bar and Grill. The fraternity members carried the cross piece by piece up the hill and secured it in its current location following that devastating fire. Their efforts resonate even now, as they reflect on the construction’s significance and endurance.
One fraternity brother noted, “The paint is waterproof, but not fireproof,” remarking on the miraculous standing of the cross even in the face of such fierce flames. Such reflections emphasize the community’s unity in their faith and their ability to uplift one another in times of crises.
Pepperdine University’s President, Jim Gash, recently articulated his pride in how the community came together during this emergency. In his comments, he recalled the biblical parable of the two builders from the Gospel of Matthew, which draws parallels between firm foundations and the community’s response during adversity. He emphasized how the events have revealed the character of the campus community and called for ongoing prayer for those still affected by the fire.
“When we return in the new year, we will continue to pursue knowledge and the search for truth in every aspect of life,” Gash affirmed, encouraging everyone at Pepperdine to remain steadfast and supportive of one another. He expressed optimism for the challenges ahead, reminding all that with faith and unity, they would remain strong.
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