Tickets for McCain-Obama forum at Saddleback limited
August 4th, 2008, 12:51 pm · 38 Comments · posted by Dena Bunis, Washington Bureau Chief
Last week Saddleback Church folks told us we’d know today how people could get tickets for the Aug. 16 forum where John McCain and Barack Obama will be questioned by Pastor Rick Warren.
Sorry. No go. Today the Saddleback Web site says a “limited number of community tickets will be available Wednesday, Aug. 13.”
I tried getting more info from the church - like how many tickets and how they’re going to decide who gets them. But nothing doing. Warren is in Mexico at the AIDS conference and so information is scarce.
What I am being told that they’re still working out how many media spots there will be and what Secret Service says it needs. Not to mention what the campaigns will require in terms of seats for their people.
So stay tuned. We’ll let you know as soon as we know more.
This will be the only time between now and the convention that the two presidential hopefuls will be in the same place.
Don’t get your hopes up though. It’s not going to be a debate. They will briefly be on stage together but then Warren will first question Obama and then McCain. The order was determined by a coin toss.
August 4th, 2008 at 2:20 pm
… it’s free to stand outside and join the protesters
August 4th, 2008 at 3:05 pm
protesting what? what an embarrassment John McCain is and what a joke that people would even consider voting for him?
August 4th, 2008 at 3:30 pm
I’m sure that more people here in Orange County will vote for McCain than for Obama. Of course, anyone who wants to protest is free to do so outside of the church property. I don’t approve of baby-killer Obama being invited to a church myself.
That being said, what exactly is Dena’s problem? Saddleback said that more info would be available today — which it is — not that the actual tickets would be available today. Of course only “limited” tickets will be available. If you are that interested in attending, be prepared to find out on the 13th and then wait in a long line for said ticket. It’s not THAT big of a church to provide everyone who wants to be there a guarenteed seat. Even Obama’s stadium tour in Denver will have “limited” seating and therefore tickets.
August 4th, 2008 at 4:23 pm
I guess I should clarify — Obama should not be invited to SPEAK at a church — there’s no doubt the Holy Spirit needs to work on his heart sitting in the pews. As I understand it, Saddleback is canceling their Saturday church service in order to hold this event. If I weren’t busy that night, I would protest too.
August 4th, 2008 at 6:46 pm
what’s the point? so that Saddlebackies can vote for the right person based on their religious views on the issues? what is the agenda and motive for the pastor? to be the new Billy Graham? Jesus is looking down in digust at all these so called supporters of his rule and his kingship (Matthew 7:21-23) like the Pharisees of old: We have no king but caesar! Wake up people! Get out while you can!
August 4th, 2008 at 6:56 pm
“baby-killer Obama ”
Wow. That’s a pretty hind-brain statement. In what possible way has Obama killed babies?
And are you forgetting who John McCain is? He was a bomber pilot in Vietnam.
If there is one person who actually HAS killed innocent people. That would be McCain. Not saying he wanted to, but the odds of the bombs he dropped not having any collateral damage is next to impossible.
I do not agree with a Church hosting a Political Function.
But then again, it’s pretty obvious that “church” is far more a money making company selling good feelings with absurdly watered down messages.
You always have to wonder what’s going on when a Pastor is a millionaire.
And Lisa, if you do have the chance. It would be interesting to see your view point on who does have the right to speak at church. What sins are or life style choices do you not approve of for someone to speak at a church?
While you are thinking about that, you might want to refer to John Chapter 8.
Maybe also think about how much money Rick Warren has made selling his books and programs to people and other churches. Sold at incredibly inflated prices for his profit. You might want to refer to the story of Jesus kicking the money makers out of the temple for… that’s right, making money off profit hiking and taking advantage of people via religous influence.
But I bet you aren’t protesting that guy being there..
August 4th, 2008 at 7:04 pm
Lisa, whose baby did Obama kill???
August 4th, 2008 at 7:56 pm
So Lisa, somehow Obama is a baby killer, but what do you think McCain was doing flying jets in Vietnam? Do you think he was dropping Bibles on the Vietnamese villagers? Please try not to be too sanctimonious. And really, try not to be a tool of right wing radio. If you believe God gave you a brain, He probably gave it to you to do more than simply parrot inane right wingers. The most laughable part about people like you is that you take your nonsensical, holier-than-thou views from dirtbags like Rush Limbaugh - a drug addict sellout who cares only for his four hundred million dollar contract.
August 4th, 2008 at 11:25 pm
I have to wonder also, what is the motivating factor behind having them there?
It looks to be self promotion.
He will never be a Billy Graham.
They are both two lost people, so why is everyone in awe?
.
August 4th, 2008 at 11:54 pm
I have to say I am very frustrated with the way the church is handling this whole process. Dont get me wrong, I imagine something like this would be an extremely difficult event to run and get together. But the lack of information available is extremely frustrated. First the info was supposed to be ready the 1st, then the 4th, now the 13th!!??!! Come on, 3 days before the event! That seems a little extreme. Also it is impossible to get any info from the church. They will say nothing but check the website, no answers as to how many tickets, what the process may be to obtain them, how much they will be, etc. If they were planning on hosting a large event like this you would think it would be better organized. I heard a rumor that local religious affiliates will get most of the tickets, and wrote to the church regarding this. Im hoping that not to be true as this debate is for the people and the candidates are running for president of the country not the church! It should be open to the people. I have a feeling these limited number of tickets supposedly available the 13th will be almost impossible to obtain
August 5th, 2008 at 8:59 am
I thought this was a church? I expect it to have its tax exempt status removed since it wants to participate in politics instead of God. Why in the world would a place that should be devoted to right and wrong as determined by God be used for one sided politics? I refuse to attend this church! Their priorities are all messed up.
August 5th, 2008 at 10:01 am
“One sided”? Last I checked, BOTH McCain and Obama were invited and are, in fact, participating equally in the forum. How is that possibly “one-sided”? As I stated, I don’t agree that Obama should be given the honor to SPEAK at any church — his position on abortion makes him complicit in 40+ million deaths — sorry, but open and defiant sin is where I draw the line. He is more than welcome to sit in the pews and let the Holy Spirit work on his heart. As always, YMMV.
In addition, as long as Warren and Saddleback don’t “endorse” one candidate over the other, or otherwise run afoul of 401(c) rules, there’s no reason to “remove” its tax exempt status. I wonder if you are you also in favor of “removing” the ACLU’s tax exempt status? Probably not, since you AGREE with them. How about this: can Pastor Rick preach from the Bible the very next day on “Making Up Your Mind: Questions to Consider before the Election”? What ever happened to “free exercise” of religion for you people?
Lastly, for those of you who think that justified killing by the State (war, death penalty, etc.) is the same thing as abortion, I’m sure there’s nothing I can say to convince you otherwise — apparently because I don’t listen to Rush Limbaugh either — sorry you can’t (or won’t) tell the difference. Have a nice day, everyone.
August 5th, 2008 at 10:49 am
This whole thing is a sign of the times. When a so-called pastor claims to be friends with the world and loved by the ‘world’ i have an issue. Obviously Rick Warren has lost his focus of so many years ago and taken the self-seeking road instead. It is a shame that so many people have fallen for this type of mockery of the gospel. Rick Warren is a man who can do whatever he chooses. It is his choice whom he wants to serve—God or mammon. Hopefully he will choose God.
As for Obama, he is a baby -killer based on the fact that he eagerly supports the death of babies through abortion. Abortion is not the same thing as those killed in war. Find a better argument Habenerojo. Abortion is a willful act of selfishness and often a form of birth control. The death of citizens during war are not willful. They are the tragedy of war. McCain did not set forth to kill babies. His goal was not to ‘kill babies’. He was serving and protecting the very country that gives you the right to write your opinion in the first place. As he continues to do everyday, what are you doing to maintain our Constitution and the very substance of our nation? Babies have a a ‘right’ to their bodies as much as the mother does. So who made the mother God?
August 5th, 2008 at 11:01 am
Why would anyone want to go to such an event in person when you can get a much better view on the networks that will be broadcasting. Unless you enjoy trying to find parking, walking a mile and a half, being subjected to multiple Secret Service screenings, and being herded like cattle into one of the venues, stay at home and watch.
But then again, I do not understand the “Carpathia-esque” appeal of one of the candidates, so maybe I am missing something.
Sincerely Rick B (aka HarleyJazz)
PS - When you start a posting with shallow minded cheap shots (such as someone who wrote “Saddlebackies”) it is not perceived as clever, just mean spirited. But that’s just my opinion. HJ
August 5th, 2008 at 11:42 am
I meant “501(c)” rules, above.
August 5th, 2008 at 12:01 pm
First off, Churches can and should talk about politics. There has never been a Church that has had its tax exempt status taken away for talking about politics in the 50 years since the IRS enacted their communist rule to the tax code.
With all the disinformation that comes through the print and TV media, people should have somewhere they trust to get accurate information.
Also, anyone who truly believes in the Bible and the morals and ethics of most religions, couldn’t be a democrat unless they truly belive in being a hypocrite, and if so, then that would be considered a self destructive mental disorder.
I noticed several instances in the above postings.
Please deomocrats, go get some mental help.
August 5th, 2008 at 12:25 pm
To be fair, I know a few pro-life Democrats who believe in the Bible . . .
August 5th, 2008 at 7:20 pm
John Doe, you are right on point!
August 5th, 2008 at 10:06 pm
In regards to John Doe’s Comment:
“Maybe also think about how much money Rick Warren has made selling his books and programs to people and other churches. Sold at incredibly inflated prices for his profit.”
No offense Mr. Doe but you failed to mention that Mr. Warren reverses his tithe meaning he gives away 90% and lives off of 10%.
Just out of curiosity, how much do you give? Also, what kind of car do you drive? I’m guessing it’s much nicer than Rick’s 10 year old Ford.
It scares me to think of how many misinformed people educate themselves by reading ludicrous, misleading comments by people such as yourself. You are certainly entitled to you opinion but please don’t misinform people.
August 6th, 2008 at 4:38 pm
You know in the past, the church was used as a community meeting place, and it doesn’t get more community than this. You should focus more on the precedence of the event than how you feel about the candidates and what babies they’ve each been accused of allegedly killing.
What is Obama going to burn up if he comes to the church, his tainted soul having touched hallowed ground, honestly.
With equal importance I think you should be less concered about Warren and his book sales, or his public persona. He meets with leaders from all over the globe - and in our own country - constantly, especially over the last couple of years, what makes him so unqualified to host this event? I by no means kid myself that he’s some saint. but seriously quit picking on someone you know little to nothing about (other than what you’ve been spoon fed by the rumor mill and tabloids or what not).
Warren’s exacting change in a assumptive, lackadaisical, unmotivated generation. But let’s pick on his book sales instead. If you want to blame someone for the success of this book and the money it made why don’t you go to the million who purchased it, whine to them about their financial decisions. But again, as Matt so readily stated, that’s a flawed argument.
August 10th, 2008 at 8:21 pm
Is the Forum going to be televised? And if so, does anyone know what stations?
August 12th, 2008 at 11:11 am
It will be on CNN and KDOC (I don’t know which channel that is)
Rick Warren does not deserve what you are saying about him. Find out the facts before you trash a man. As the person stated above, he and his wife do give back 90% and live off the 10%. They live in a normal neighborhood near the church, and all drive modest cars.
you should go and hear him speak one Sunday, he is a true man of God, as can be said for the entire pastoral staff. They truly live what they preach, which is love.
They are presenting both candidates, Rick is and has been friends with both for some time. He is not giving his opinion.
Regarding the tickets, he asked the church to decide how the tickets should go out. People gave their opinions, and they went with those opinions to charge for some seats, and they did a lottery for the other seats to the many members at Saddleback who volunteer their time to serve for others.
No one is forcing you to attend nor to listen. you can continue to assume your way into all of your opinions. That is why God gave us free will.
August 12th, 2008 at 6:32 pm
i like what obama views. he is for the people.
August 13th, 2008 at 1:01 am
Listen to the truth about obama. He speaks fluent arabic and thinks the muslim call to prayer is the most beautiful sound in the world. The muslim prayer is a prayer to kill Americans, America, and all we stand for: our traditions, history, freedoms and Christian population. The muslim call to prayer is a call take over America. They think we are evil and deserve to be wiped off the earth. Their propiganda around the world is anti-American hate. How could we allow this man, who shows outward hate toward America, and other races like whites, to become our leader? How could we possibly allow this apparent anti-American, who won’t salute the American flag, to become our commander and chief? How could we trust a man who lies about his blood line, upbringing, education and basic goals? Are red blooded American citizens thinking this through? There is a blindness that has taken over the good people of our country. Those of you who can’t see that if obama is elected, it is the end of our country, please use logic. Look at the facts. Look at what he hasn’t done for our country. There is still time to save America. Lets at least vote a man into office who has done much for America. McCain has been willing to acctually give his life for our country as he proved in the prisoner of war camp. He has character, has sacrificed for our great country. He is a strong, loyal American. His wife and he are involved in humanitarian causes around the world. Please think about what is best for the furture of our way of life, for our safety, and for our generations to come. Read about muslems, their history. Don’t listen to the propaganda that makes obama look like a smiley celebrity. Look into what appears to be the evil Anti-American eyes that are lerking behind the mask, the eyes that won’t honor our American heritage, the mouth that won’t pledge the flag, the mind of a muslem sympathizer. If he says he is a Christian, then lets see some Christian behavior. Killing unborn babies, attending an anti-American, anti-Christian love church, and lying about his biological and step fathers, exagerating his work as a politician are not Christian attrubutes. People of America, think about it, research it, and open your minds. We have an oportunity to hear both candidates this Saturday; thank God! In a muslem country, we would not have that oportunity, and, even worse, when the new candidate took office, we would loose everything we worked for, our property, money, maybe our lives. This has happened in China, Syria, Germany and other countries where freedoms of the people are taken away. Research Syria and what happens when new government takes over there. Research Iraq and Iran. See how people live under the kind of governments that obama proposes, oppressive taxation, poor medical care, poverty and fear. Remember Germany and the second world war? The government had a hate for one particular people and systematically killed them and their offspring. I believe that obama has an agenda that is sinister because he associates with people who hate other people simply because of their color. After you research this information, become an informed voter. Be on the safe side. Be loyal to America.
August 13th, 2008 at 7:52 pm
oh Linda…(insult deleted by blog moderator — let’s be civil, folks).
“Saddlebackies” (Geez Loueeze…ya’ make em’ sound like “Heavens Gate” f’cryin’ out loud) I pray for silly folks like you, Lisa & so many others I’m reading on this thread. FACT;
Pastor Rick gives 90% and lives on 10% of his book earnings…(he doesn’t even take a salary for being senior pastor…a rather large job) FACT; God gave us all a brain…it’s up to us whether we seek the truth with it…and what we DO with that truth, once we find it…It’s a GOOD thing…If y’all can turn off the FOX NETWORK long enough to think for yourselves…
August 13th, 2008 at 8:14 pm
Linda has expressed very well the thoughts of many millions of thoughtful and patriotic Americans. I wish I could have said it as eloquently!
August 13th, 2008 at 9:13 pm
think
August 14th, 2008 at 7:18 am
Linda, Please see a mental health care professional as soon as possible. And someone who can teach you to spell. You are in desperate need of help.
August 14th, 2008 at 5:35 pm
Question: Obama, While a prisoner of war John Mc Cain was offered his freedom - he chose not to take it, but remain a prisoner. What decisions have you made in your life that would be considered of similar consequence ?
August 15th, 2008 at 12:49 pm
I wish Jesus would let me borrow $2000 to go to the event. I will prey eal hard, maybe the money will fall out of the sky.
August 15th, 2008 at 11:32 pm
Steve and Martin: You are right; I am a poor speller. I’m also crazy: Crazy like a fox. If you think a debate is hurling personal insults without documented facts or credible research about the subject, I’d like to know what school you went to so I can avoid it. O’Reilly would say, “Stop drinking the kool-aid.”
After you have read the following list of research books, journals, periodicals, and personal accounts, you will be qualified to discuss issues with me.
(1.) “The Facts on Islam” by John Ankerberg and John Weldon, written before 9/ll, 1991/revised 1998
(2.) “Jerusalem Countdown” by John Hagee, 2006
(3.) Halley’s Bible Handbook, Must by Copyright of 1965 or earlier; the newer copyrights are, “Politically Correct” and leave out the ugly truths, of documented history (Please read pages 81 through 83; 338 through 341 - Ancient Babylon is modern Iraq; 711 through 721 - The one world government‘s power by economics, religion and military; 766 -767; Especially 717
(4.) Read the works of Jave’ Lipkin or listen to him speak
(5.) Epicenter by Joel Rosenburg, 2006;
(6.) Silent No More by Rod Parsley, 2005
(7.) Midnight Call - Periodical, all issues of 2000 through 2006
(8.) The Holy Bible: all books of Revelation, Daniel, I and II Thessalonians, and Ezekiel
August 16th, 2008 at 12:40 am
I am a Saddleback member and have been since 1987…back when we were still in a high school gym! When I heard that Pastor Rick would be interviewing the candidates I was not thrilled at all. Not because I see it as an “agenda,” but because I know how it will appear to ignorant people who post comments on message boards; people who have never gone to a service at Saddleback or know the first thing about our pastor. Our “millionaire pastor,” as one poster put it, donates 90% of his income and doesn’t take a salary from the church. He has built a thriving place of worship and is being blasted for it. Stop drawing conclusions from the bits and pieces you see in the news. Saddleback is filled with loving people and I invite all of you to visit. I think you’ll be surprised how scripturally sound and non-’watered down’ the messages are.
August 16th, 2008 at 1:25 am
Wow Linda lets just make up lies, tell them to the American people over and over again and maybe then they’ll believe it. Sounds like a certain president that I know of.
August 17th, 2008 at 9:55 am
McCain was the clear winner in last nights discussion forum and is the best of the two candidates to be the next President of the United States of America.
August 17th, 2008 at 5:22 pm
John Doe:
John McCain was a United States armed forces member dropping bombs so you can say the ridiculous things you choose to say…anytime.
He served longer as a POW than the Messiah/Chosen One/Obama has in the US senate–who exactly is qualified again?
The Messiah (Barack Husein Obama) is for killing US babies–third trimester, recently born, etc.
Obama is a closet Muslim and lord help us all if he gets elected.
McCain is not a true conservative like myself, but at least he understands and can react to what is going on in Georgia–let Obama continue his body surfing gig–he is worthless.
August 17th, 2008 at 5:33 pm
Another thing:
I read an article in of course–a liberal based paper today (Houston Chronicle) stating that McCain is playing the race card!!##%%!!
Oh my goodness—this is the farthest thing from the truth as possible. He will try anything to obtain an office he is not qualified to serve.
In fact, true or not—there are some allegations he has a dual citizenship–anyone know any thing further about this?
I am also ready for Obama…the Chosen One to name his VP–unless he chooses a conservative running mate–he is gone. Of course, there are the rumors about Mrs Clinton running some side show and taking the nomination herself. Why would this occur? After all–Obama is what this nation has been waiting for, dreaming of etc etc (throw-up) etc….why would anyone challenge his junior senate status? He is after all—the one we have waited for..the CHOSEN ONE–(throw up)
August 18th, 2008 at 11:42 am
“They live in a normal neighborhood near the church, and all drive modest cars.”
Does anyone familar with South Orange County think Dove Canyon is a ‘normal neighboorhood’? PLEASE!
November 10th, 2008 at 8:16 pm
Not even a week after the president election the blond topblogger from Sweden, Linda Ekholm speaks out loud about Obama!
And I really believe this is truly written by heart. Scary!
http://www.finest.se/userBlog/?uid=30701&beid=1040511