Grace Community Church pastor hospitalized with pneumonia at age 86
Renowned evangelical pastor John MacArthur has been hospitalized with pneumonia, prompting concern among members of his Los Angeles-area congregation.
The 86-year-old pastor of Grace Community Church in Sun Valley has faced years of health challenges, including multiple surgeries, and was most recently admitted to the hospital, according to church leadership, Fox News reported.
MacArthur’s condition was disclosed to the congregation on Sunday during an 11 a.m. worship service. Associate Pastor Tom Patton made the announcement, indicating the beloved pastor had fallen ill during the week and is now in fragile health.
Patton shared that MacArthur “may be in the presence of the Lord soon,” underscoring the seriousness of his current illness. He urged congregants to continue praying for MacArthur and his family, which includes his wife, four children, and fifteen grandchildren.
This most recent hospitalization comes after several years of persistent medical concerns. In 2023, MacArthur unexpectedly became ill during a church service, which marked the beginning of a series of health issues that have since escalated.
Long Recovery After Multiple Surgeries
MacArthur has undergone a number of procedures since his initial health scare. These included treatments for atrial fibrillation and other related conditions affecting his cardiovascular system.
In 2024 alone, he underwent three surgeries in the latter half of the year. Recovery after those operations was reportedly slow and included periodic complications with his heart, lungs, and kidneys.
Earlier this year, MacArthur was hospitalized for a second lung procedure. At that time, he released a statement expressing optimism, indicating that the operation had gone well and that he had returned home to continue his recovery.
Leader of Church for Over Five Decades
MacArthur has served as the senior pastor of Grace Community Church for 56 years, building a reputation as one of the most influential evangelical figures in the United States.
He is also president of the media ministry Grace to You, a nonprofit organization that shares his teachings worldwide. The group manages nearly 400 book titles authored by MacArthur himself and broadcasts his sermons through multiple platforms.
While the church has yet to issue an official public statement or respond to inquiries from news outlets, the congregation was advised during the service to remain hopeful and prayerful through this uncertain time.
Known for Previous Legal Battle Over COVID-19 Restrictions
In recent years, MacArthur gained widespread national attention not only for his decades of preaching but also for his legal stance during the pandemic.
During the height of COVID-19 in California, MacArthur and Grace Community Church defied state lockdowns. A judge later ruled the congregation could resume in-person services while restrictions were still in place across the state.
This move garnered both support and criticism, catapulting MacArthur into headlines and increasing public scrutiny of his leadership decisions beyond theological matters.
Congregation Shows Support During Saturday Announcement
Sunday’s service in Sun Valley was marked by a tone of solemn hope as Patton expressed the congregation’s collective feelings. “We place our dear pastor at the feet of the glorious Savior,” he said, reflecting on MacArthur's long service and unwavering belief.
Pastor Patton emphasized that MacArthur has spent decades preparing people spiritually and praised his enduring commitment to the ministry. Many in attendance reportedly expressed deep emotion during the announcement.
The legacy of MacArthur’s work, both locally and around the world, continues to impact Christians and church leaders across denominational lines as they wait for further updates on his health.
