A Purpose Driven Discussion

LAKE FOREST, CALIF. - Rick Warren, John McCain, and Barack Obama are three men from very different backgrounds, however they share a common bond and that is their faith.

The evening of August 16, Rick Warren, the founder and pastor of the 22,000-member resort-style Saddleback Church, hosted the first forum featuring both the presumptive Democratic and presumptive Republican presidential nominees. He considers them both friends. Warren is best known for a book that sold millions called "The Purpose Driven Life."

Straying from the traditional debate format, Warren invited John McCain and Barack Obama to the stage, one at a time, for an hour. He asked the candidates the same questions in what he called a "no zingers" approach. The event was held at his church with the purpose of bringing faith to the forefront of conversation.

Barack was up first. "I believe that Jesus Christ died for my sins and I am redeemed through him. That is a source of strength and sustenance on a daily basis. I know that I don't walk alone," said the Democratic nominee, in reference to his own personal faith.

"It (faith) gives me the confidence to try things, things like running for President," Obama said.

Abortion was inevitably discussed with both candidates calling the issue one of the most moral and ethical challenges facing our country. John McCain is pro-life and he reminded Rick Warren and the audience that he has maintained this stance for 25 years. While talking about abortion, McCain brought up the importance of Supreme Court Justice appointments.

Pro-choice, Barack Obama, emphasized he's not pro-abortion. He called for a need to reduce the number of abortions by providing adequate education and healthcare. In addition, he believes that those who are pro-life must have the tools necessary in order to raise their children in the difficult situations they may have.

McCain referenced Katrina and energy policy and told stories about his experiences in the war. Because no one can deny the rhetorical skills of Obama, McCain is often considered less of a speaker. However, this forum proved that assumption wrong. Initial reaction from the audience was positive, McCain came across well spoken and disproved previous criticism.

The Republican nominee from Arizona said even when he travels to places where people probably won't vote for him it's still "my job to be the president of every American."

It was clear Rick Warren is actually friends with both candidates. Obama laughed with Warren after he asked him to define what it means to be rich in America and Obama responded, "Book sales of $25 million," in reference to "The Purpose Driven Life." Warren also asked McCain if he "wanted to play poker" after time went by quickly with his quick, direct answers. Such laughter gave a light-hearted feel to a serious discussion and allowed the audience to get into the minds and hearts of these men.

Despite their differences, the candidates and Rick Warren have another kind of faith in common - faith in America.