Hollywood, often criticized by Christians, has found support in Karen Covell, who has dedicated 25 years to encouraging prayers for the industry. She founded the Hollywood Prayer Network to see the city as her ministry.

Hollywood’s storytelling expertise, which shapes identity and influences emotions, is viewed as a vital mission field by Covell. Her organization, with over 170 chapters across 42 countries, recently celebrated its 25th anniversary with a Gatsby-themed gala in Los Angeles. Covell emphasized the importance of praying for those in the industry, including celebrities like Britney Spears and Robert Downey Jr., during challenging times.

Founded in 2001, the Hollywood Prayer Network offers intercessory prayer, discipleship, networking, and Bible studies. Covell, alongside her husband Jim Covell, saw the need to support believers in Hollywood who felt disconnected from both the church and the entertainment industry.

Recruitment was challenging initially, as many Christians were wary of Hollywood’s secular influence. Covell set out to bridge the gap between the church and the industry, fostering creativity and storytelling.

The network’s initiatives include community groups for various industry professionals, mentorship, networking, and a prayer calendar supporting child actors. Participants engage in local chapters and use a dedicated app to access resources and community events.

Covell recognizes isolation, fear, and discouragement as challenges for artists, addressed through community support. Her personal success is tied to her marriage and shared faith practices with her husband.

While Covell no longer produces, her focus remains on expanding the prayer network, which initially grew slowly. The network’s social media recently featured a humorous video imagining a documentary about Christian life in Hollywood.

Covell believes in the commercial industry’s potential, celebrating its projects and people. She aims to support storytellers in their pursuits, fostering a sense of unity and inspiration.