{"id":12242,"date":"2023-10-10T22:07:21","date_gmt":"2023-10-10T21:07:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/?p=12242"},"modified":"2023-10-04T22:07:35","modified_gmt":"2023-10-04T21:07:35","slug":"pray-for-california","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/pray-for-california\/","title":{"rendered":"Pray for California"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>&#8220;Pray for California&#8221; is not just a phrase but a call to unite in faith and love, echoing the strength found in unity (Ecclesiastes 4:12).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Bible highlights the power of prayer. James 5:16 assures us of its effectiveness, a promise that our prayers are heard and answered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In California, the need for divine wisdom and peace is evident amidst various challenges. Philippians 4:6 encourages us to present our concerns and aspirations to God through prayer, promising peace that surpasses understanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Praying for California signifies a collective faith journey. We are stewards of this state\u2019s well-being and peace. In prayer, we are assured of God\u2019s presence (Matthew 18:20).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Join us in this journey of faith. Together, we aim for a California that is prosperous, spiritually enriched, and blessed. Each prayer and act of faith contributes to a state reflecting divine grace and beauty. Amen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Quick_Brief\"><\/span>Quick Brief<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2><div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_63 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\">Page Contents<\/p>\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-660a8ca3b3b2c\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-660a8ca3b3b2c\" checked aria-label=\"Toggle\" \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/pray-for-california\/#Quick_Brief\" title=\"Quick Brief\">Quick Brief<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/pray-for-california\/#GDP\" title=\"GDP\">GDP<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/pray-for-california\/#Population\" title=\"Population\">Population<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/pray-for-california\/#Economic_Challenges_and_Opportunities\" title=\"Economic Challenges and Opportunities\">Economic Challenges and Opportunities<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/pray-for-california\/#Population_and_Demographics\" title=\"Population and Demographics\">Population and Demographics<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/pray-for-california\/#Age_Distribution\" title=\"Age Distribution\">Age Distribution<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/pray-for-california\/#Racial_and_Ethnic_Composition\" title=\"Racial and Ethnic Composition\">Racial and Ethnic Composition<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/pray-for-california\/#Other_Demographic_Information\" title=\"Other Demographic Information\">Other Demographic Information<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/pray-for-california\/#California_Leadership\" title=\"California Leadership\">California Leadership<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/pray-for-california\/#Economy\" title=\"Economy\">Economy<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/pray-for-california\/#Economic_Performance\" title=\"Economic Performance\">Economic Performance<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/pray-for-california\/#GDP_Growth\" title=\"GDP Growth\">GDP Growth<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/pray-for-california\/#Personal_Income_Growth\" title=\"Personal Income Growth\">Personal Income Growth<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/pray-for-california\/#Economic_Outlook\" title=\"Economic Outlook\">Economic Outlook<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/pray-for-california\/#Addressing_the_Challenges\" title=\"Addressing the Challenges\">Addressing the Challenges<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/pray-for-california\/#Healthcare\" title=\"Healthcare\">Healthcare<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/pray-for-california\/#Healthcare_in_California\" title=\"Healthcare in California\">Healthcare in California<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/pray-for-california\/#Mental_Health\" title=\"Mental Health\">Mental Health<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/pray-for-california\/#COVID-19_Vaccinations\" title=\"COVID-19 Vaccinations\">COVID-19 Vaccinations<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/pray-for-california\/#Opioid_Crisis\" title=\"Opioid Crisis\">Opioid Crisis<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/pray-for-california\/#Peace_and_Safety\" title=\"Peace and Safety\">Peace and Safety<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/pray-for-california\/#Public_Concern\" title=\"Public Concern\">Public Concern<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/pray-for-california\/#Medias_Role\" title=\"Media&#8217;s Role\">Media&#8217;s Role<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/pray-for-california\/#Government_Action\" title=\"Government Action\">Government Action<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/pray-for-california\/#Prayer_Points_for_California\" title=\"Prayer Points for California\">Prayer Points for California<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/pray-for-california\/#Call_to_Action\" title=\"Call to Action\">Call to Action<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Population: 39,512,223<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>GDP: 3.701 trillion USD<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Unemployment Rate: 9.0%<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Persons without Health Insurance, under age 65: Data to be updated with recent stats<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.prayerrelay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Golden-gate-bridge-San-francisco.jpg?ssl=1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.prayerrelay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Golden-gate-bridge-San-francisco.jpg?resize=640%2C427&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12243\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.prayerrelay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Golden-gate-bridge-San-francisco.jpg?w=640&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.prayerrelay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Golden-gate-bridge-San-francisco.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"GDP\"><\/span>GDP<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>California&#8217;s economy is robust, with a GDP of $3.701 trillion as of the fourth quarter of 2022. The state&#8217;s economic landscape is diverse and dynamic, contributing significantly to the United States&#8217; overall economic output. However, it has faced challenges, including major tech industry layoffs and decreased income tax revenue collections, impacting its growth trajectory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Population\"><\/span>Population<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The state has experienced a decline in population in the 2020s, currently estimated at 39 million residents. This demographic shift is essential to California&#8217;s economic and social landscape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Economic_Challenges_and_Opportunities\"><\/span>Economic Challenges and Opportunities<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>California is navigating through economic challenges marked by a declining dollar value and issues within the tech industry. Despite these challenges, the state&#8217;s focus on burgeoning industries like renewables and clean energy underscores its commitment to innovation and sustainable growth. California&#8217;s resilience and leadership in these sectors are pivotal for its future economic outlook.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sources:<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cato.org\/commentary\/no-california-not-worlds-fourth-largest-economy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> Cato Institute<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Population_and_Demographics\"><\/span>Population and Demographics<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>California, the most populous state in the U.S., is home to a diverse community of 39,512,223 people. The state is a melting pot of cultures, languages, and traditions, offering a rich, multicultural experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As of July 1, 2022, California&#8217;s population is estimated to be approximately 39,029,342, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Age_Distribution\"><\/span>Age Distribution<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Persons under 5 years: 5.5%<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Persons under 18 years: 21.8%<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Persons 65 years and over: 15.8%<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Female persons: 49.9%<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Racial_and_Ethnic_Composition\"><\/span>Racial and Ethnic Composition<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>White alone: 70.7%<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Black or African American alone: 6.5%<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>American Indian and Alaska Native alone: 1.7%<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Asian alone: 16.3%<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander alone: 0.5%<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Two or More Races: 4.3%<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hispanic or Latino: 40.3%<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>White alone, not Hispanic or Latino: 34.7%<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Other_Demographic_Information\"><\/span>Other Demographic Information<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Foreign-born persons, percent (2017-2021): 26.5%<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Language other than English spoken at home, percent of persons age 5 years+ (2017-2021): 43.9%<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>These statistics provide a snapshot of California&#8217;s diverse population, characterized by a variety of ages, races, and ethnicities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Source:<a href=\"https:\/\/www.census.gov\/quickfacts\/CA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts: California<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"California_Leadership\"><\/span>California Leadership<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Governor:<a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gavin_Newsom\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> Gavin Christopher Newsom<\/a> is the current Governor of California, a dedicated public servant focusing on education, healthcare, and economic development. His spouse, Jennifer Siebel, and their four children support him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Senators:<a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Dianne_Feinstein\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> Dianne Goldman Berman Feinstein<\/a> and<a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Alex_Padilla\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> Alejandro Padilla<\/a> represent California in the U.S. Senate. Feinstein is known for her extensive political experience and advocacy for gun control and healthcare. With the support of his spouse, Angela Monzon, and their three children, Padilla is committed to immigration reform and environmental protection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Mayor of Los Angeles:<a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eric_Garcetti\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> Eric Michael Garcetti<\/a>, with the support of his spouse, Amy Wakeland, and their child, oversees the administration and development initiatives of Los Angeles, focusing on sustainability, housing, and public safety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Economy\"><\/span>Economy<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>California, the most populous state in the United States, is known for its diverse economy, marked by significant contributions from technology, entertainment, agriculture, and other sectors. However, recent data indicates some challenges that the state is navigating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Economic_Performance\"><\/span>Economic Performance<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>California&#8217;s economy has been experiencing some stagnation, with personal income growth remaining stagnant and prices continuing to rise. The state&#8217;s economy is not keeping pace with positive national trends. In June, California\u2019s unemployment rate was 4.6%, higher than a year earlier and the second-highest of any state, next to Nevada\u2019s 5.4%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"GDP_Growth\"><\/span>GDP Growth<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The Federal Bureau of Economic Analysis reported that California\u2019s gross domestic product in the first quarter was one of the nation\u2019s slowest growing at 1.2%. This growth rate is roughly a third of the growth in states like Texas (3%) and Florida (3.5%).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Personal_Income_Growth\"><\/span>Personal Income Growth<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Personal income growth in California is also lagging. Nationally, it grew by 5.1%, but in California, it was a mere 0.7%, placing it near the bottom compared to other states. This anemic personal income growth impacts the state&#8217;s families, especially with ongoing inflation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Economic_Outlook\"><\/span>Economic Outlook<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>A poll by the Public Policy Institute of California found that many Californians believe that bad economic times lie ahead, influenced by their experiences with inflation in housing, food, fuel, and other living expenses. The state also faces declines in personal income taxes and resultant multibillion-dollar budget deficits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Addressing_the_Challenges\"><\/span>Addressing the Challenges<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Despite these challenges, California remains a hub of innovation and economic activity. The state&#8217;s government and business sectors are actively exploring strategies to bolster economic growth, address inflation, and improve the overall economic outlook for the state&#8217;s nearly 40 million residents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Source:<a href=\"https:\/\/calmatters.org\/commentary\/2023\/08\/economy-outlook-improves-california-muddy\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> CalMatters<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Healthcare\"><\/span>Healthcare<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Healthcare_in_California\"><\/span><strong>Healthcare in California<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In 2023, California is focusing on key areas in healthcare, including mental health, COVID-19 vaccinations, and the opioid crisis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Mental_Health\"><\/span>Mental Health<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) allocated $16.3 million to youth suicide prevention on September 15, 2023. This funding addresses the rising concern of mental health issues among young adults and adolescents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"COVID-19_Vaccinations\"><\/span>COVID-19 Vaccinations<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>CDPH stresses the need for updated COVID-19 vaccinations to counter the anticipated challenges of the winter respiratory virus season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Opioid_Crisis\"><\/span>Opioid Crisis<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>On September 6, 2023, a new phase of the opioid and fentanyl overdose prevention and education campaign was launched to tackle the opioid crisis effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These targeted initiatives demonstrate California&#8217;s strategic approach to addressing specific healthcare challenges and improving overall health outcomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Source:<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdph.ca.gov\/Programs\/OPA\/Pages\/NR21-2023.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> CDPH News Releases 2023<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Peace_and_Safety\"><\/span>Peace and Safety<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In 2022, California&#8217;s crime rates increased, with the Department of Justice reporting a 6.1% rise in violent crime and a 6.2% increase in property crime. Robberies specifically surged by 10.2%, contrasting a slight reduction in homicides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Public_Concern\"><\/span>Public Concern<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>A Public Policy Institute poll highlighted increased concerns about crime, with nearly two-thirds of Californians identifying violence and street crime as community problems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Medias_Role\"><\/span>Media&#8217;s Role<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The media, aided by the ubiquity of cameras, has amplified crime awareness, broadcasting incidents and elevating public concern.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Government_Action\"><\/span>Government Action<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Government officials, including Attorney General Bonta and Governor Newsom, are addressing crime while also focusing on criminal justice reform.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Refer to the California Department of Justice\u2019s crime data for specific <a href=\"https:\/\/oag.ca.gov\/crime\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">crime data<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Source:<a href=\"https:\/\/calmatters.org\/commentary\/2023\/07\/crime-increase-california-fears-justified\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> CalMatters<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Prayer_Points_for_California\"><\/span>Prayer Points for California<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li>Economic Stability\n<ol>\n<li>Prayer Point: Lord, we pray for economic stability and growth in California, that You provide wisdom to the leaders to navigate through economic challenges and lead the state to prosperity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bible Verse: &#8220;The Lord will open to you his good treasury, the heavens, to give the rain to your land in its season and to bless all the work of your hands&#8230;&#8221; &#8211; Deuteronomy 28:12 (ESV)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Health and Well-being\n<ol>\n<li>Prayer Point: We pray for the health and well-being of all Californians, especially amidst the ongoing health crises. May healing and strength abound.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bible Verse: &#8220;But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds,\u2019 declares the Lord&#8221; &#8211; Jeremiah 30:17 (NIV)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Safety and Security\n<ol>\n<li>Prayer Point: Father, we ask for Your protection over California. Keep its residents safe and reduce crime rates.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bible Verse: &#8220;The Lord is my light and my salvation\u2014whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life\u2014of whom shall I be afraid?&#8221; &#8211; Psalm 27:1 (NIV)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Leadership Wisdom\n<ol>\n<li>Prayer Point: God, grant wisdom and understanding to the leaders of California to make decisions that will benefit all residents.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bible Verse: &#8220;If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.&#8221; &#8211; James 1:5 (ESV)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Unity Among Residents\n<ol>\n<li>Prayer Point: We pray for unity among the diverse population of California, that love and harmony will prevail.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bible Verse: &#8220;Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity!&#8221; &#8211; Psalm 133:1 (ESV)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mental Health\n<ol>\n<li>Prayer Point: Lord, we lift up those struggling with mental health issues; may they find comfort, healing, and support in their communities.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bible Verse: &#8220;Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.&#8221; &#8211; Matthew 11:28 (ESV)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Environmental Protection\n<ol>\n<li>Prayer Point: Father, we pray for preserving and restoring California\u2019s environment. Bless the efforts aimed at sustainability and conservation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bible Verse: &#8220;The earth is the Lord\u2019s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it;&#8221; &#8211; Psalm 24:1 (NIV)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Education and Youth Development\n<ol>\n<li>Prayer Point: We pray for the education system and the youth of California. May they have access to quality education and growth opportunities.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bible Verse: &#8220;Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.&#8221; &#8211; Proverbs 22:6 (ESV)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Healthcare System\n<ol>\n<li>Prayer Point: Lord, we ask for Your guidance and provision in strengthening California\u2019s healthcare system to effectively serve all residents.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bible Verse: &#8220;He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.&#8221; &#8211; Psalm 147:3 (ESV)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Homelessness and Housing\n<ol>\n<li>Prayer Point: Father, we pray for solutions to homelessness and housing issues in California. Provide shelter and comfort to those in need.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bible Verse: &#8220;For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.&#8221; &#8211; Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Call_to_Action\"><\/span>Call to Action<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Join us in prayer for California, promoting unity and resilience. Each positive thought and action aids in the state&#8217;s renewal and prosperity. California&#8217;s resilience and potential are rooted in its economic vibrancy and cultural diversity. Every citizen shapes a future of peace, prosperity, and well-being. Amen.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>&#8220;Pray for California&#8221; is not just a phrase but a call to unite in faith and love, echoing the strength found in unity (Ecclesiastes 4:12). The Bible highlights the power of prayer. James 5:16 assures us of its effectiveness, a promise that our prayers are heard and answered. In California, the need for divine wisdom [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"podcast_url":"","podcast_explicit":"","podcast_captioned":false,"podcast_duration":"","podcast_filesize":0,"podcast_mime":"","enclosure":"","podcast_season_number":"","podcast_episode_number":"","podcast_episode_type":"","podcast_transcript":"","_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1319],"tags":[],"podcasting_podcasts":[],"featured_image_src":"","blog_images":{"medium":"","large":""},"ams_acf":[],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[],"jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/p4eBDD-3bs","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12242"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=12242"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12242\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":12245,"href":"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12242\/revisions\/12245"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=12242"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=12242"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=12242"},{"taxonomy":"podcasting_podcasts","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.prayerrelay.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/podcasting_podcasts?post=12242"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}