News by email Donate

Suggestions

Top Stories

Most Read

Popular Videos

World News

The Queen was a friend to my father Billy Graham but more importantly, she was a true friend of the Christian faith

by Marcus Jones
Billy Graham Queen Elizabeth.jpg - Banner image
BGEA

US evangelist Franklin Graham has paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth, reflecting on the friendship between her and his father Rev Billy Graham.

In a statement online, he said: "I am deeply saddened to hear about the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. She has been a symbol of stability and steadfastness for the United Kingdom for 70 years, and I'm asking people to join me in praying for the royal family and the people of the UK.

"I will always appreciate her example of leadership and her life of integrity. I'm especially grateful for the Queen's friendship with my father.

"He cherished their friendship that was built on a shared love for Jesus Christ and belief in God's Word."

Billy Graham and Queen Elizabeth met often during her reign with their friendship even featuring in TV drama The Crown.

In his book Just as I am, Billy Graham spoke of the support she'd given to him and his work: "Her official position has prevented her from openly endorsing our Crusade meetings. 

"But by welcoming us and having me preach on several occasions to the royal family at Windsor and Sandringham, she has gone out of her way to be quietly supportive of our mission."

Billy Graham was even invited to listen to the Queen practice her Christmas message as she wanted his thoughts on her message one year.

He would later vow to pray for her and her family every day.

A Monthly Gift Of $11 Makes A World Of Difference

In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you.

Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. No one in the USA is sharing news like we are across radio, magazines and online so please help us to continue that today.

For a monthly gift of $11 or more we’d also be able to send you a free copy of the brand new Premier Bible, a wonderful Anglicised version of the NLT packed with exclusive bonus content, reading plan and resources to help you get the most out of scripture.

Your monthly support will make a world of difference. Thank you.

Support Us
Continue the conversation on our Facebook page

Related Articles

Sign up to our newsletter to stay informed with news from a Christian perspective.

News by email

Connect

Donate

Donate