Mater Dolorosa Passionist Retreat Center
The Passionists of Holy Cross Province
700 N Sunnyside Ave, Sierra Madre, CA 91024-1023
tel 626 355 7188 web www.materdolorosa.org
January 23, 2025
Dear Friends,
The second reading from last Sunday's liturgy says, “Brothers and sisters: There are different kinds of spiritual gifts but the same Spirit; there are different forms of service but the same Lord; there are different workings but the same God who produces all of them in everyone” (1 Cor 12:4). The evacuation orders were lifted on January 12th with certain guidelines and precautions from the city administration. I see collective efforts of different gifts and forms of service towards a single purpose of restoring Mater Dolorosa.
We conducted a walk-through with our insurance adjuster to assess the damage. Utility companies are restoring services. Fire crews and the National Forest Department continue their post-fire inspection. The Chumash Fire Department is helping remove burnt trees. Mater Dolorosa staff and Servpro (cleaning company) are cleaning the damaged areas to prepare for reopening. We've completed preliminary electrical inspections and cleared inspections for hazardous materials. Thanks to the utility companies, we now have access to electricity, gas, internet, and water in most areas of the property. We are waiting for test results from the city to get clearance on water quality.
On January 17th, the staff of Mater Dolorosa, the Passionist community, our Board chair, and vice-chair met in person for a supportive gathering. We shared our experiences, participated in a healing session, and found comfort in each other's presence. This event was crucial for revitalizing our spirits and moving forward with hope and purpose.
We sincerely appreciate everyone who has generously contributed their time, talent, treasure, and prayers. Your support means the world to us! As we face crucial needs, we invite you to join us in making a difference. Every contribution counts, and together, you can create a lasting impact. Thank you for being a part of our mission! Thanks to the Knights of Columbus and Mater Dolorosa Young Adults for guarding our property during the weekend. Thanks to the many of you who offered volunteer time, we'll keep reaching out for help as needed.
With gratitude, we hope to reopen Mater Dolorosa for our weekend retreats and other events starting on February 7, 2025, exactly one month after the Eaton fire. However, we will have limitations due to damages and safety guidelines for the attendees. Before we reopen, I invite you to join us for a Zoom prayer session and a brief update on January 29th at 7 p.m. Please join us on Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89020525443
We have a long way to go to restore what fire destroyed in one night, but we are on the journey. The holy ground of Mater Dolorosa, so dear to many, is more than just a place. It is a sanctuary of peace, prayer, and healing. Each contribution strengthens our legacy and brings us closer to the renewal of this sacred space. Together, we can rebuild not only the physical beauty of Mater Dolorosa and the spiritual refuge for countless souls.
Your generosity will leave a lasting impact on this holy ground. Will you join us in this journey of restoration? Donations can be made online here.
“Different gifts, one spirit,” a journey of hope under the shadow of the Cross, continues.
May the Passion of Christ be always in our hearts!
Fr. Febin Barose, C.P., Ed.D.
Retreat Center Director and Director of Ministry
Additional Pictures: Facebook or MDPRC Website
Picture credits: Ricardo Solda, Marta Salgado-Niño, Katie Twomey, and Fr. Febin Barose, C.P.
