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.

William Franklin Graham III, commonly known as Franklin Graham, is a prominent American evangelist and missionary. 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 Graham's leadership, Samaritan's Purse has become a leading global relief provider, offering assistance in areas affected by conflict and natural disasters, such as Ukraine and Pakistan. Considered a highly influential evangelical leader, Graham heads one of the largest charitable organizations in the U.S., funded by substantial private donations. He also frequently engages in Christian revival tours and political commentary.

Sections (5)

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

1970: Attended and Expelled from LeTourneau College

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

1980: Relocation of Samaritan's Purse Headquarters

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

2001: Limited Funding for HIV/AIDS Prevention

In 2001, Samaritan's Purse allocated only $1.6 million for HIV/AIDS prevention efforts due to a lack of donor-designated contributions for such programs.

2008: Compensation Totaled $1.2 Million

In 2008, Franklin Graham's compensation from both organizations totaled $1.2 million, leading to questions about his dual roles.

2009: Scrutiny for Full-Time Salaries

In 2009, Franklin Graham faced scrutiny for receiving full-time salaries from both Samaritan's Purse and Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA).

April 22, 2010: Pentagon Rescinds Invitation

On April 22, 2010, following objections from the Military Religious Freedom Foundation and CAIR, the Pentagon rescinded Franklin Graham's invitation to speak at a Pentagon National Day of Prayer event.

2015: Criticism for Salary from BGEA

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

2018: Removal of Advertisements in Blackpool

In 2018, Blackpool Borough Council removed advertisements for Franklin Graham's Lancashire Festival of Hope from local buses due to concerns about his past comments.