Rev. Warren Cashes In $2.4 Million

Recession or no, disciples of Rev. Rick Warren came up with $2.4 million in donations to the Saddleback Church this week after Warren sent out an “urgent” plea for help closing a $900,000 gap in the church’s budget. “Unparalleled generosity is the norm here,” said Warren, who was criticized for the dire tone of his fundraising message sent to the church’s massive congregation. He responded to the influx of donations with a sermon praising the “radical generosity” of church members that he dubbed a “miracle.” Warren’s sermons, based in Southern California, are broadcast throughout the world, making Saddleback the sixth largest church in the United States.