This week in Christian history: Criswell dies, Presbyterian Church founds life insurance company, anti-Nazi pastor born

By Michael Gryboski, Mainline Church Editor Sunday, January 10, 2021

W. A. Criswell dies — January 10, 2002

This week marks the anniversary of when W. A. Criswell, longtime head of the prominent First Baptist Church of Dallas, Texas, and founder of Criswell College, passed away at age 92.

Also a prolific author, Criswell was known for his staunch fundamentalist Christian beliefs and influencing many clergy and also served as president of the Southern Baptist Convention.

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In a statement released at the time of Criswell’s passing, famed evangelist the Rev. Billy Graham remarked that Criswell had a “multiplicity of gifts.”

“[Criswell] had one of the most loving hearts I have ever known. His devotion to Scripture inspired thousands of young clergy from many denominations. His preaching was electric in its power,” continued Graham.

“His counsel and love to me meant more than he ever knew.”