This week in Christian history: Protestant Reformer born, Italian sect gets legal rights; Billy Graham dies

By Michael Gryboski, Mainline Church Editor Sunday, February 16, 2020

Billy Graham dies – Feb. 21, 2018

Evangelist Billy Graham preaches to thousands. | (Photo: A. Larry Ross Communications)

This week marks the anniversary of when world-famous evangelist the Rev. Billy Graham died, months shy of his 100th birthday.

A native of Charlotte, North Carolina, Graham was one of the most widely heard and respected preachers in human history, having preached to nearly 215 million people in over 185 countries and territories.

“Graham’s popular appeal was the result of his extraordinary charisma, his forceful preaching, and his simple, homespun message: anyone who repents of sins and accepts Jesus Christ will be saved,” explained Britannica.

“His evangelical crusades around the world, his television appearances and radio broadcasts, his friendships with presidents, and his unofficial role as spokesman for America’s evangelicals made him one of the most recognized religious figures of the 20th century.”