A well-known US televangelist has become gravely ill from Covid-19, promoting a global outpouring of prayer for his recovery. Pastor Frederick K.C. Price, who founded the 28,000-strong Crenshaw Christian Center in Los Angeles, is thought to be battling heart, lung and kidney issues after being hospitalised with the virus.
In a statement posted to Facebook at the week, one of the church's ministers, Baltimore Scott, called for prayer:
“This morning in prayer, I called on Father God to remember His faithful son and servant, Frederick K.C. Price and the beacon of light and truth in teaching the Word that Apostle has been to the body of Christ and to the world. I said that our church family, the Body of Christ and the world need Apostle Price more than ever to remain with us as that true beacon of the Father’s Word and example of integrity and truth the world needs so badly now."
The 89-year-old Price and his wife, Betty, contracted Covid-19 more than a month ago, according to his son - Pastor Fred Price Jr - who is now the senior leader of the church.
“Happy 89th birthday Dad, I love you and honor you for the measuring stick of a man you’ve been my entire life," Pastor Price Jr wrote in a post on January 4th. "As many of you know my parents both tested positive for Covid-19. Once the frustration and annoyance passed, I reminded myself of their faith and the many challenges they’ve overcome. Coronavirus is just another notch on their belts. Thanks for all your prayers; much love and appreciation to you all."
Price Jr later revealed that the situation had become more "taxing", but did not disclose any further details on his father's condition.
"I figured I’d also use this as an opportunity to thank everyone for their prayers for Dad as we continue to stand and fight the good fight of faith," he wrote. "I just haven’t been in a social media mood lately...I’ve honestly only felt like praying and studying the word with an occasional praise break these past few weeks."
Pastor Price is known for his “Ever Increasing Faith Ministries” broadcast, which dates back to 1978. He is a proponent of the prosperity gospel.
