(CBN News) – For the first time, John MacArthur publicly admitted Sunday that COVID-19 infections spread through his Southern California congregation last winter, noting he and his wife fell ill to the virus in December.
MacArthur told church members ahead of his sermon that “many people contracted COVID” and “it probably went through our church in maybe December or January.” The pastor said he and his wife, Patricia, “enjoyed our own bout with COVID for about a week and a half.”
The preacher’s admission came amid news that Grace Community Church in Sun Valley received an $800,000 settlement from Los Angeles County after defying pandemic-induced health orders. Jenna Ellis, the church’s attorney, tweeted about the settlement.
Very pleased with the approval of an $800,000 settlement and total win for my clients, @johnmacarthur and @GraceComChurch, on behalf of @ThomasMoreSoc.
The church IS essential.
Our statement: pic.twitter.com/Rin5W7eA8x
— Jenna Ellis (@JennaEllisEsq) August 31, 2021
Last year, when far-reaching government restrictions were put in place, the megachurch continued holding indoor worship services despite bans on such gatherings. MacArthur also refused to enforce mask and social distancing guidelines for congregants.
He argued at the time that such mandates violated constitutionally protected religious liberties. L.A. County has reportedly spent nearly $1 million in attorneys fees and other costs since the legal battle with Grace Community Church began. READ MORE
