This Happened — May 15: Billy Graham Crusade Begins

Updated May 15, 2024 at 1:30 p.m.

Billy Graham’s 1957 crusade began at Madison Square Garden in New York City on this day. The crusade drew a total of 2.3 million people over the course of its four-month run, with an average attendance of around 18,000 people per night.

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Who was Billy Graham?

Billy Graham was an American evangelist and prominent Christian leader who rose to international fame in the mid-20th century for his dynamic preaching and mass revival meetings.

Was Billy Graham rich?

Graham was known for his frugal lifestyle and modest personal finances. It is worth noting, however, that Graham did oversee significant fundraising efforts throughout his career, which helped to finance his large-scale evangelistic crusades and support a wide range of charitable organizations. However, the funds raised were typically used to support the mission of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and related organizations, rather than to enrich Graham personally.

What was Billy Graham’s message?

Billy Graham’s message focused on the core beliefs of Christianity, including the need for personal salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. He emphasized the importance of repentance, forgiveness, and living a life of faith and service to others.

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