In a heartfelt message, Pastor Rick Warren reached out to his Christian community with an urgent request for prayer. On Sunday evening, a brushfire—later deemed to be intentionally set—spread toward Saddleback Church’s main campus in Lake Forest, California. Though the fire was swiftly contained, the situation stirred deep concern for Warren and his congregation.
“Please pray,” Warren wrote on social media, informing followers that the flames had already scorched two acres of Saddleback Church’s property. “So far, no buildings have been in danger,” he assured, but with a campus spanning 120 acres, half of which is parking space, the proximity of the fire felt alarming. This is especially unsettling considering the brushfires that had already threatened the area just weeks earlier.
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The Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) responded quickly to the blaze, which began around 1 p.m. near Portola and Rancho Parkways. Their efforts contained the fire within approximately 45 minutes, averting further damage. Fortunately, no church buildings were affected. However, the cause of the fire adds a chilling element to the situation: local investigators announced that the fire had been intentionally ignited. Authorities have already taken one suspect into custody, and the investigation is ongoing.
For Saddleback Church, this incident feels particularly heavy, coming after several weeks of localized wildfires and challenges. Warren, who retired from leading the church in 2022, still feels the weight of protecting the community he shepherded for decades. His request for prayer serves as a reminder of the need for God’s protection, even in the face of natural or man-made disasters.
This moment also calls Christians to reflect on God’s provision during times of crisis. Saddleback Church, with its extensive ministry efforts and outreach programs, has long been a source of hope and help to those in need. Now, it’s time to pray for the church itself—for its safety and continued ability to serve its surrounding communities.
As believers, we are encouraged to stand with Saddleback Church and lift them up in prayer during this trial. James 5:16 reminds us, “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” Let us pray not only for the church’s physical safety but also for those affected by this senseless act and for healing and redemption to flow through the situation.
A Prayer For Saddleback Church
Heavenly Father, we come before You with humble hearts, lifting up Saddleback Church and its congregation during this challenging time. We thank You for protecting the buildings and the people involved, and we ask for Your continued protection as they recover from this ordeal. We pray for peace and healing for those affected by this intentional fire, and we ask that You surround them with Your love and comfort.
Lord, we also pray for the suspect involved, that Your light may reach their heart and transform their life. May justice be served with grace and mercy. Father, we trust in Your sovereignty and protection over Saddleback Church and its mission to serve the world. Strengthen the community, draw them closer to You, and help them continue to be a beacon of Your love.
In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
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