This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This archival content was originally written for and published on KPCC.org. Keep in mind that links and images may no longer work — and references may be outdated.
Crystal Cathedral sells off property, struggles with economy
An interior shot of the Crystal Cathedral on July 24, 2002 in Garden Grove, California.
(
Ann Johansson/Getty Images
)
Listen
0:56
Crystal Cathedral sells off property, struggles with economy
Crystal Cathedral sells off property, struggles with economy
Even the Crystal Cathedral isn't immune to a weak economy. The Orange County megachurch is scrambling to cover its costs.
Televangelist Robert Schuller's famed church in Garden Grove saw an $8 million drop in revenue last year. That's more than a quarter of its budget.
So the Crystal Cathedral is cutting back some of its "Hour of Power" broadcasts, selling 170 acres of property and laying off 50 employees. The church has also canceled its annual "Glory of Easter" production.
It says the cuts will save about $5 million — not quite enough to completely close the gap.
Another Orange County megachurch — Saddleback Church in Lake Forest — faced a similar budget shortfall because of the stagnant economy last year.
A few weeks ago, Saddleback pastor Rick Warren pleaded to his congregation for donations to cover a nearly $1 million shortfall. That appeal generated more than twice the amount Warren had sought.
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
