What has happened to Saddleback Church?

Saddleback Church, a prominent Southern California congregation founded by pastor and author Rick Warren, has been removed from the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC). This significant decision was formally affirmed by the SBC at its annual meeting in June 2023.

Key Developments for Saddleback Church

The most notable event concerning Saddleback Church is its disfellowship from the Southern Baptist Convention. This action reflects a long-standing theological difference regarding the role of women in pastoral leadership, which is a core doctrinal point for the denomination.

The Southern Baptist Convention's Decision

At its annual meeting held in New Orleans on Tuesday, June 13, 2023, the Southern Baptist Convention voted to uphold an earlier decision to remove Saddleback Church. The primary reason for this removal was the church's practice of having women pastors.

The SBC's stance, based on its interpretation of biblical principles, maintains that the office of pastor is exclusively for men. Saddleback Church, despite its significant influence and status within the evangelical community, had ordained women into pastoral roles, leading to its non-compliance with the Convention's stated beliefs and ultimately, its removal. This move underscores the Convention's commitment to its theological guidelines concerning church leadership.

Summary of the Situation

For a clear overview of the key details regarding Saddleback Church's removal from the Southern Baptist Convention:

This event marks a pivotal moment for both Saddleback Church and the Southern Baptist Convention, highlighting the denomination's firm stance on theological interpretations concerning leadership roles within its member churches.