Healing Marriages From … Hollywood?

Hollywood, Calif., isn’t exactly known as the hub for upholding traditional family values. So when Philip and Holly Wagner planted Oasis Church in the middle of Beverly Hills 27 years ago, the couple probably didn’t imagine their church would be the springboard to a national ministry whose forte is teaching about God-centered relationships, particularly marriage.

“I think most people aren’t equipped to weather the hard times,” says Holly, whose name is synonymous with the popular God Chicks book series. “In any relationship, that euphoric, cloudy and glow feeling disappears. Are you going to work on building a love that lasts or look for that cloudy, ‘in love’ feeling again?”

In addition to pastoring the non-denominational charismatic church, the couple leads webinars and speaks at half a dozen conferences annually, with Holly appearing at additional meetings targeting women.

Oasis Church also hosts an annual God Chicks conference, which typically attracts 2,000. Although best known for its relationship insights, Oasis maintains an active social justice program. Among its facets are 230 clean water projects in 17 nations and $3 million worth of missions contributions the past few years.

“Taking the focus off of yourself is the key to relationships,” Philip says of reaching out. “The healthier we get in our own soul, the freer we are to put genuine attention on others.”

Hollywood: Prayer Points