Pastor Rick Warren's Saddleback Church will be conducting massive nationwide and international services this Easter, according to the church's website.
In a recent devotional, the pastor encouraged people to come to Easter services, without worrying that they have "got to clean up" their acts before God, before coming to the services.
"The truth is, God doesn't expect us to clean up our act before we approach him. The death and Resurrection of Jesus is God's statement on that. Jesus spread out his arms and said, 'I love you this much. Now, just come as you are,'" he said.
The church wants to reach at least 50,000 people through 57 services at 16 campuses in US and foreign countries including in Germany, China, Argentina, and Philippines.
Warren said that those who cannot be physically present at the service may watch the sermons live online.
Saddleback's main campus in Lake Forest will host the first service which will be broadcast to all locations.
"God's number one characteristic throughout the Bible is mercy. His mercy heals broken hearts, reconciles relationships, restores forgotten dreams, and refreshes tired souls. It's the cure to every insecurity, worry, and fear," says the Saddleback page on 'Miracles of Mercy', a special devotional series this Easter.
Marketing coordinator at Saddleback, Nebai Cherrick, told The Christian Post that one of the Sunday Services at Lake Forest will be held at sunrise, so that the congregation can see the "sunrise outdoors on Easter morning as [they] enjoy music and an inspiring message."
"The moments before the sun begins to rise in the morning are bleak and dark. But as the sun climbs above the horizon, the sky comes alive with color. This is how it is with Jesus, who is the reason we celebrate Easter. Without him, we're simply broken pieces without life or purpose. With Christ, we come alive, reflecting his light. With him, the darkness is gone and we are filled with hope. It's a new day."
The website tells the viewers to come to the church for "live music, an inspiring message, Easter egg hunts, pancake breakfasts, and more."
