Harvest Christian Pastor Greg Laurie tests positive for COVID-19 after attending Rose Garden ceremony
Greg Laurie, pastor of the Riverside-based megachurch Harvest Christian Fellowship, confirmed Monday he has tested positive for COVID-19 after visiting Washington, D.C.
Christian Broadcasting News reported Monday, Oct. 5, that Laurie, 67, attended several prayer rally events in Washington, D.C., with Vice President Mike Pence more than a week ago, as well as the White House Rose Garden ceremony on Sept. 26 to announce the nomination of Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the U.S. Supreme Court.
President Donald Trump and several members of his inner circle who attended the White House event have tested positive for COVID-19.
Hours before the Rose Garden ceremony, Laurie attended Prayer March 2020, organized by evangelist Franklin Graham and held on the Mall in Washington. Video from the event shows thousands of participants, many of whom were not wearing protective masks or practicing social distancing, kneeling in small prayer groups and waving flags.
“At a time like this, we need to pray for those that have it and avoid politicizing it. If our President and First Lady can get COVID-19, clearly anyone can. I chose to first tell those I was directly in touch with and the congregation I pastor. Thank you for your concern and prayers. I hope to see you all soon.”
In the video message, Laurie said his symptoms include fatigue, aches, pain, difficulty tasting food and boredom.
“I want to get out again doing what I’m called to do,” he said. “It’s important as Christians for us to be reminded that God’s in control of our lives. I don’t know why he allows me to get it but I got it And I know he will get me through it as he has always been faithful to me in the past. Ultimately, I also know my times are in his hands. When that moment comes for me to leave this world I’ll leave. And I won’t leave a moment before and I won’t leave a moment after.”
Laurie, who has been a minister since 19, founded Harvest Christian Fellowship in 1973. With a congregation of more than 15,000, it is the eighth largest church in the United States and the third largest in California.
https://www.pe.com/2020/10/05/harvest-christian-pastor-greg-laurie-tests-positive-for-covid-19-after-attending-rose-garden-ceremony/