The late Rev. Billy Graham, a Charlotte-born evangelist, will have a statue unveiled in the U.S. Capitol next week to represent North Carolina. The 7-foot tall bronze statue will be unveiled in the National Statuary Hall, with House Speaker Mike Johnson, congressional members, and Graham’s family expected to attend. The North Carolina General Assembly approved legislation in 2015 to request a likeness of Graham for display in the hall, following the rule that statues can only be installed posthumously. Graham, who passed away in 2018 at age 99, will replace the statue of Gov. Charles Aycock, who has fallen from favor due to his ties to the white supremacy movement.
The statue of Graham, created by Charlotte-based artist Chas Fagan, shows him gesturing towards an open Bible in his hand. The sculpture was bronzed in Seagrove, North Carolina, with the base made from Rowan County granite and inscribed with two Bible verses that highlight Graham’s evangelistic ministry. The other North Carolina statue in the National Statuary Hall is a likeness of Civil War-era Gov. Zebulon Vance, who was also a Confederate military officer and U.S. senator. Graham, known as the most widely heard Christian evangelist in history, preached in person to over 210 million people worldwide.
The unveiling of the Graham statue marks a significant moment for North Carolina as it is set to be represented in the U.S. Capitol by a figure of great historical and religious significance. Graham’s legacy as a prominent evangelist and preacher has had a lasting impact on millions of people globally, making him a fitting choice for representation in the National Statuary Hall. The statue’s placement will honor Graham’s life and work, showcasing his dedication to spreading the teachings of Christianity and his influence on generations of believers.
The selection of Graham for a statue in the U.S. Capitol reflects the recognition of his contributions to the religious landscape of the country and his enduring influence on American Christianity. The unveiling ceremony is expected to draw attention from various stakeholders and dignitaries, including House Speaker Mike Johnson and other congressional members, as well as the evangelist’s family. The event will be a momentous occasion for North Carolina and a fitting tribute to the legacy of Rev. Billy Graham, whose impact on the world of evangelism continues to be felt to this day.
The design and creation of the Graham statue, with its intricate details and symbolic gestures, highlight the artist’s intention to capture the essence of the late evangelist’s persona and message. The incorporation of the Bible verses on the base of the statue further emphasizes Graham’s dedication to sharing the teachings of Christianity and spreading the message of faith. The unveiling of the statue represents a culmination of efforts to honor Graham’s legacy and ensure that his impact on society is remembered and celebrated for years to come.
Overall, the unveiling of the Rev. Billy Graham statue in the U.S. Capitol is a momentous occasion that pays tribute to the life and work of a renowned Christian evangelist. The statue’s installation in the National Statuary Hall recognizes Graham’s lasting influence on American Christianity and his significant contributions to global evangelism. As North Carolina’s representative in the U.S. Capitol, the statue serves as a reminder of Graham’s dedication to spreading the message of faith and the teachings of the Bible, inspiring generations of believers and leaving a lasting legacy in the world of evangelism.
