A well-known pastor in the US state of Texas has been diagnosed with Covid-19, prompting an outpouring of prayer and concern from his congregation and beyond. San Antonio’s Cornerstone Church announced on Sunday that its lead pastor, John Hagee, had tested positive for the virus. 

Pastor Matt Hagee, John's son, revealed the news to Cornerstone at the church's Sunday service.  

“Pastor Hagee has been diligent throughout this entire COVID pandemic to monitor his health. And this past Friday, he was informed by his doctors that he did test positive for COVID,” the younger Hagee said. "It was one, discovered very early and two, his medical team has him under watchful care and three, he's feeling well enough to be frustrated by anyone in a white coat with a stethoscope."

"He did let me know before I came to church today that he covets your prayers and he looks forward to seeing you again very soon back here at Cornerstone Church.”

The Mayor of San Antonio, Ron Nirenberg, said Covid-19 was a "terrible disease" and "wished the Hagee family well and a speedy recovery".

The 80-year-old Hagee, recognised for his work with Christians United For Israel (CUFI), is known to be a close ally of President Donald Trump, who is also battling Covid-19 at the moment. 

Many on the Cornerstone's Facebook page announced that they were praying for pastor and their President. "Praying for Pastor Hagee and for the President, first lady and all those who are sick," one person wrote. "Praying for Pastor Hagee and President Trump and our First Lady. May you be completely healed and restored to good health immediately!!” " another added. 

In July, Hagee teamed up with parents from Cornerstone Christian School to file a lawsuit against San Antonio and Bexar County officials, challenging their order which delayed the start of in-person attendance at schools until September as a result of Covid-19.