Pastor Rick Warren and Obama: An Unlikely Alliance

The decision by Barack Obama to choose Pastor Rick Warren to deliver the invocation at his presidential inauguration in December 2008 sparked controversy among many liberals who saw Warren as an opponent of gay rights and abortion on demand. However, this alliance also demonstrated the significant influence that Warren has gained globally, both in religious and secular circles.

As the founder of Saddleback Church in California, a congregation of nearly 20,000, Warren is one of the most prominent Christian leaders in the world. He has addressed the United Nations and the World Economic Forum in Davos, and has been named as one of the '15 world leaders who matter most' and one of the '100 most influential people in the world'.

Warren's influence extends beyond his church, with his foundation having an impressive set of faith contacts. The Tony Blair Faith Foundation, a UK-based charity that promotes cohesion between the major faiths, has stated that Warren's foundation is developing a US arm to pursue a host of faith-based projects.

In addition to his work in the US, Warren has also been involved in international initiatives. He sits on the council of the Baptist World Alliance (BWA), a Virginia-based network of churches that spans the globe and is particularly active in the US. Another initiative has been to team up with the Belinda Stronach Foundation in Toronto.

Warren's ability to bring together people from different faith backgrounds has made him a powerful voice in religious circles. His foundation's advisory council includes other prominent religious leaders, demonstrating his influence and reach.

The alliance between Warren and Obama may have attracted criticism from some quarters, but it also highlights the significant impact that Warren has had on global events. As one of the most influential Christian leaders in the world, Warren's voice is likely to continue to be heard for many years to come.

Pastor rick warren and obama