Challenges Faced by Franklin Graham: Obstacles and Turning Points

Life is full of challenges, and Franklin Graham faced many. Discover key struggles and how they were overcome.

Franklin Graham is a prominent American evangelist, missionary, and political commentator within the evangelical movement. As the son of Billy Graham, he leads both the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA) and Samaritan's Purse, a major international Christian humanitarian aid organization. Under his leadership, Samaritan's Purse has become a leading global provider of emergency assistance in crisis zones, responding to events in regions such as Ukraine and Pakistan. Graham is considered a highly influential evangelical leader in the United States, overseeing a charitable organization that receives substantial private donations.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

1970: Attended LeTourneau College

In 1970, Graham attended LeTourneau College in Longview, Texas, but was expelled for keeping a female classmate out past curfew.

1980: Conflict and relocation of Samaritan's Purse headquarters

In 1980, Graham discovered that the California leadership of Samaritan’s Purse had incorporated a separate ministry organization, leading to a conflict and the relocation of the headquarters to Boone, North Carolina.

2008: Compensation Concerns

In 2008, Franklin Graham's compensation from Samaritan's Purse and Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA) totaled $1.2 million, raising concerns about his earnings.

2009: Salary Scrutiny

In 2009, Franklin Graham faced scrutiny for simultaneously drawing full-time salaries from Samaritan's Purse and Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA), leading to questions about his compensation and time commitment.

2015: Salary Controversy Resurfaces

In 2015, Franklin Graham was again criticized for resuming his salary from BGEA, with his annual compensation exceeding that of CEOs at similar non-profit organizations.

2018: Ad Removal in Blackpool

In 2018, Blackpool Borough Council removed advertisements for Franklin Graham’s Lancashire Festival of Hope from local buses due to complaints about his past comments on Islam and same-sex marriage.

2020: UK Tour Cancelled

In 2020, all venues booked for Franklin Graham's planned eight-city UK tour were cancelled following protests by LGBTQ+ activists and local councils due to his controversial statements.