Wooden Cross Becomes Beacon Of Hope After Wildfire
A white cross atop a California hill overlooking Pepperdine University stood resilient amidst the destruction caused by the Franklin Fire, offering a symbol of hope for the university’s students and staff. The 20-foot wooden cross, anchored by cement on a hill above the campus, was one of the few structures to survive the fire, which scorched more than 4,000 acres in Los Angeles County. The university shared an image of the cross standing tall above the charred landscape, bringing a sense of comfort to the community. Although the fire prompted a shelter-in-place order and caused some damage, no injuries were reported, and the threat to the campus was minimized.
The cross, which had previously been destroyed in the 2018 Woolsey Fire, became an even more poignant symbol for the university’s community. “I am grateful to God that He spared Pepperdine and this cross,” a university spokesperson said, expressing the deep sense of relief and gratitude felt by many. The cross had been placed on the hill by the Sigma Chi fraternity in December 2018 to honor Alaina Housley, a student killed in the Borderline Bar and Grill shooting. The fraternity members had rebuilt it after the Woolsey Fire, carrying it up the trail in pieces and anchoring it at its current location. The resilience of the cross, still standing after the Franklin Fire, left many in awe of its endurance.
Pepperdine University President Jim Gash reflected on the significance of the cross’s survival in the midst of hardship. In his statement, he expressed pride in how the university community responded to the crisis, acknowledging God’s protection over the campus. He also drew parallels to the biblical parable of the two builders from Matthew 7:24-27, which illustrates the importance of building one’s life on a strong foundation. Gash emphasized that, just as the house built on solid rock withstood the storm, Pepperdine’s community had remained steadfast through the challenges posed by the fire.
Gash’s message highlighted the university’s commitment to continue pursuing knowledge, truth, and fellowship, no matter the difficulties ahead. He expressed confidence that the campus community would remain united in love and support for one another, continuing to rise above challenges with faith and determination. The president closed his message with a prayer for the safety of the university and the wider community, trusting that with God’s help, they would endure whatever challenges the future may bring.