Pastor John MacArthur, the 86-year-old leader of Grace Community Church in California, has been hospitalized with pneumonia. During Sunday’s service, associate pastor Tom Patton told the congregation that MacArthur “may be in the presence of the Lord soon” and requested urgent prayers for the pastor and his family. 

The announcement came after MacArthur contracted pneumonia last week, leading to his immediate hospitalization. 

This latest health crisis follows years of serious medical issues, including multiple heart surgeries and lung procedures since 2023. The beloved pastor has not preached publicly in 2024 due to his declining health. 

MacArthur’s health struggles began dramatically in January 2023 when he experienced breathing difficulties right after delivering a sermon. He was hospitalized and underwent three heart procedures plus lung surgery, resulting in a seven-week hospital stay. 

As news spread, the church community gathered in prayer for MacArthur, his wife of 61 years Patricia, their four children, 15 grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. 

During Sunday’s emotional service, Patton led the congregation in placing their pastor “at the feet of the glorious Savior whom he has served so faithfully.” Guest preacher H.B. Charles Jr. tearfully acknowledged how MacArthur’s ministry shaped his own calling, calling the pastor’s influence “fruit of the faithfulness of this pulpit.” 

MacArthur has led GCC’s congregation for 56 years and is the President of Grace to You, which is a nonprofit organization dedicated to distributing nearly 400 book titles authored by the pastor, according to the church’s website.

“We place our dear pastor at the feet of the glorious Savior,” Patton was quoted as saying during Sunday’s service. “Whom he has served so faithfully for so many years and now awaits His final command to be in his presence forever.”