A longstanding landslide in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, is rapidly accelerating, leading to the dismantling of the iconic Wayfarers Chapel. Designed by Lloyd Wright, son of architect Frank Lloyd Wright, the chapel was built among redwoods and boasts stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. However, the movement of the earth beneath it is causing unprecedented damage, with the ground shifting more than 2 feet each month. The chapel, intended to celebrate the natural world, is now falling victim to the forces of nature.
Rev. Dan Burchett, the chapel’s executive director, described the current state as dangerous, with extensive damage making it perilous to walk on the grounds. The Glass Church, as it is also known, was designed to embody organic architecture, blending seamlessly into its natural surroundings. However, the effects of the 1956 Portuguese Bend landslide, as well as its cliffside location, have contributed to its current state of disrepair. Despite being designated as a National Historic Landmark in late 2023, the chapel had to close due to worsening conditions just two months later.
The damage to the chapel includes significant cracks in the cornerstone, a deteriorating parking lot, fractured glass panels, and structural issues in the ceiling and walls. To preserve the original materials and potentially rebuild the chapel in the future, crews have been working to dismantle the structure. Reconstruction is estimated to take four years and cost at least $20 million, not including the expense of securing a new location in the expensive area. The church had initially planned a $10 million restoration project for 2025 but has shifted focus to fundraising efforts for reconstruction.
Wayfarers Chapel, part of the Swedenborgian denomination, has a rich history of welcoming people of all faiths and beliefs. It has served as a place of worship for wayfarers seeking spiritual experiences and connections to nature. While the chapel’s regular services have been relocated due to the landslide, its inclusive approach to spirituality remains a core tenet of its mission. The site has also been a popular location for weddings and has been featured in various films, TV shows, and music videos over the years, adding to its cultural significance.
Notable celebrity weddings, such as Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys in 1995, have taken place at Wayfarers Chapel, further solidifying its place in American pop culture history. For some visitors, like Nancy and Randy Erwin who exchanged vows there in 1987, the chapel holds sentimental significance in their lives. Despite the current challenges and the need for reconstruction, the spirit of the chapel, as a place of unity and spiritual connection, continues to resonate with those who have experienced its charm and beauty. Although the physical structure may be changing, the legacy and impact of Wayfarers Chapel are likely to endure in the hearts of those who have been touched by its presence.
