LAist is part of Southern California Public Radio (SCPR), a member-supported public media network. Hear our news on-air at our partner site:
This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
Rick Warren, the controversial preacher from the OC's Saddleback Church, kicked off a long weekend of prayin' in San Juan Capistrano yesterday with the launch of Radicalis, a 3-day festival for young believers, reports the OC Register. The festival is being held on a 170-acre ranch that was recently gifted to the church by supporters in Oklahoma City. Taking a glance at the website, the event looks like some sort of combination between a music festival (songs by the Crave Band, Josh Fox and Phil Wickham) and a business conference (breakout sessions will take place throughout the day today). Those attending are encouraged to bring typical camping gear, as well as journals, pens and, of course, bibles.
The goal of the festival is to inspire the next generation.
Warren is nationally known for his charm, charisma, and efforts to build bridges between various faiths and denominations, and on the flip side, for his polarizing, staunchly conservative take on social issues. He's also remembered as the man who helped swear in President Obama, causing some progressives' heads to spin with outrage.
According to the Register, Radicalis is open to the public. Tickets at the door are $45.