The Purpose Driven Life: What on Earth Am I Here for?

Rick Warren, the author of The Purpose Driven Life, is a well-known evangelical Christian pastor and author. He founded Saddleback Church, one of the largest churches in the United States, located in Lake Forest, California. His early call to ministry was cemented during his college years and further influenced by notable religious figures like W. A. Criswell. Warren’s approach to Christian teachings has been characterized by a practical, accessible style that aims to bridge traditional religious teachings with everyday life challenges. His approach seeks to distill complex theological concepts into understandable and actionable steps for a broad audience.

Warren’s pastoral journey began in earnest in 1980 when he and his wife, Kay, initiated a small Bible study group, which eventually evolved into the Saddleback Church. The church has seen substantial growth, boasting an average weekly attendance of nearly 20,000 people. Warren’s influence extends beyond pastoral duties; he is a prominent speaker at various prestigious national and international forums and events, reflecting his broad impact on both religious and secular audiences.

His participation in significant events, such as hosting a presidential forum in 2008 and leading a prayer at the 2010 Rwandan presidential inauguration, underscores his role in public and political spheres.