Christian evangelist Franklin Graham recently announced the creation of the Billy Graham Defense Fund during his “God Loves You” tour in Glasgow, Scotland. The fund aims to promote religious liberty in the United Kingdom and is partially funded by legal winnings awarded to the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. Graham, the president and CEO of both the BGEA and Samaritan’s Purse, hopes to support other Christians who may face threats to their freedom of speech. In 2020, Graham faced cancellations from all venues for his planned tour in the UK, which led to legal disputes that have now been resolved in favor of the BGEA. The organization received approximately $650,000 in legal cases and hopes to empower others in the UK to preach their faith without fear.
The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association had previously filed suit in 2018 after Franklin Graham’s ads were removed from buses in Blackpool, England, due to religious discrimination. A judge ruled in favor of the BGEA, and the town of Blackpool issued an apology in 2021. With the establishment of the Billy Graham Defense Fund, Graham aims to inspire Christians throughout the UK to freely and boldly live out and share their faith without fear. Graham believes that amidst societal problems, true hope can only be found in Jesus Christ, and it is essential to support each other in spreading the Good News. The free events during the tour, where Graham was joined by other musicians, saw the participation of numerous churches in the region and brought together thousands to hear the message of the Gospel.
During the Glasgow event, Graham emphasized the importance of knowing Jesus Christ and the transformative power of faith. Pastors in Glasgow, like Alex and Charlotte Gillies from Victory Christian Centre, expressed the desperate need for the message delivered by Graham in a society grappling with issues such as depression, mental health problems, and financial struggles. They believe that only Jesus can bring hope and healing to Scotland. Such events not only provide hope to pastors and churches but also offer a message of salvation to those seeking spiritual direction in the midst of chaos. For Graham and the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, these events are an opportunity to reach out to individuals and communities in need of faith, hope, and love in troubled times.
In 2025, Franklin Graham and the BGEA are set to return to the United Kingdom, with plans to preach in London. The organization remains committed to promoting religious liberty and supporting Christians in sharing their faith without fear. Graham’s tour in the UK has not only garnered support from local churches and communities but has also highlighted the need for spiritual guidance and hope in a society grappling with challenges. The establishment of the Billy Graham Defense Fund, fueled by legal victories in defense of religious freedom, reflects the organization’s dedication to upholding the principles of faith and empowering individuals to proclaim the Gospel with courage and conviction. Through events like these, Graham and the BGEA continue to spread the message of Jesus Christ’s love and salvation, offering a beacon of hope in a world searching for meaning and purpose.
