Remembering the Rev. Billy Graham

In 1954, the same year as his historic crusades in London and Berlin, Billy Graham visited Seattle Pacific University (then Seattle Pacific College) to receive an honorary doctorate in recognition of his “world movement for God.” The Seattle Pacific College Bulletin published this account of his visit.

“One of the high points during the Autumn Quarter was the Special Convocation Tuesday morning, November 23, when the Bill Graham team came as a group to the campus and the college conferred upon Billy Graham the Doctor of Letters degree. The ceremony followed a very wonderful address to a packed auditorium by the evangelist. Faculty members were present in academic regalia and the entire atmosphere was electric with interest and high appreciation because of the significance of the occasion.” 

Throughout the years, SPU faculty, staff, and students have supported Billy Graham crusades in Seattle and around the country. We mourn the loss of this brother in Christ and one of the most influential pastors in history.

“I am a member of the human race. I am a world citizen. I have a responsibility to my fellow humans, whatever their religion. And I am convinced that only Christ can meet the deepest needs of our world and our hearts. Christ alone can bring lasting peace — peace with God, peace among men and nations, and peace within our hearts. He transcends the political and social boundaries of our world.” The Rev. Billy Graham

Posted: Wednesday, February 21, 2018