When Peter and Jacqueline Halpin evacuated their Altadena home at 7:30 PM on January 7th, 2025, they took only what mattered most: some family photos, important documents, and a cherished religious icon.
Within hours, the advancing Eaton wildfire would claim the house where they had raised their six children. But it was what happened next that captured the nation’s attention.
On January 9th, upon returning to find their home reduced to ashes, the Halpins didn’t despair. Instead, they gathered their entire family – all six children and many of their 14 grandchildren – around the only structure left standing: a statue of the Virgin Mary. There, amid the rubble, they raised their voices in the ancient Latin hymn “Regina Caeli.”
“It was just, ‘Let’s just get up and pray and thank God for the wonderful memories that we’d had there,'” Jacqueline Halpin told reporters, her voice steady despite the devastation surrounding her.
“We believe very strongly in the virtue of hospitality. We’ve had a lot of gatherings, so I just wanted to pray and thank God for our safety and ask him for protection.”
People find solace in singing 'Regina Caeli,' O Queen of Heaven, after witnessing the devastation of the fire in California.
Video: Gianna Halpin pic.twitter.com/ENfA4tCceS
— Sachin Jose (@Sachinettiyil) January 10, 2025
Legacy of Traditional Values
Since moving to their Altadena home in 1988, the Halpins had built more than just a house – they had created a testament to enduring family values. Every milestone, from baptisms to holiday gatherings, was celebrated within its walls. Their daughter Gianna and her 2-year-old child had been living in the backhouse, making three generations under one roof.
“It’s not like we’re the perfect family,” Jacqueline admitted. “We have squabbles. But home was a place where everybody could go.”
A Community United in Response
The family’s faithful response quickly resonated beyond their community. Within 24 hours of posting, their video went viral, touching hearts across the nation and drawing support from prominent conservatives, including actress Candace Cameron Bure, who praised their unwavering faith.
The community’s response has been equally inspiring. A GoFundMe campaign started by their eldest son Pete has raised over $73,000, exceeding their $60,000 goal by more than $13,000 – demonstrating that Americans still believe in supporting families who embody traditional values.
When Government Stands in the Way of Recovery
While the Halpins’ faith remains unshaken, they face a different challenge: government red tape. Peter Halpin, a contractor by trade, stands ready to help rebuild not just his home but his neighbors’ as well.
His concrete company, Halpin Bros. Concrete, is already preparing to assist with cleanup efforts throughout the community.
However, he fears government regulations will impede recovery efforts. “I know exactly what needs to be done to get things rolling,” Peter explained. “But what I’m afraid of is the government officials are going to slow it down.”
The family’s plea to local officials is simple: put political agendas aside and help people in need. “Make building permits easy to get,” Jacqueline urged. “This is an unprecedented thing, and we need help. And we need leadership to step up and help us.”
Key Takeaways:
- A California Catholic family responded to losing their home of 36 years by singing.
- The Halpin family’s viral video of their response has inspired millions and led to overwhelming community support.
- While ready to rebuild and help neighbors through his concrete company, father Peter Halpin faces government bureaucracy obstacles.
Sources: Daily Wire, The Daily Signal, KTLA
