EXHIBIT 23.1

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT


We consent to the incorporation by reference in this Registration Statement of 
LIFE Financial Corporation on Form S-8 of our report dated February 27, 1998 
(March 11, 1998, as to Note 20) appearing in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of 
LIFE Financial Corporation for the year ended December 31, 1997.


/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP

Costa Mesa, California
April 27, 1998