As the Rev. Billy Graham celebrates his 87th birthday today in his quiet home in Charlotte, USA, the evangelistic association that bears his name officially announced that the June 2005 crusade in New York was indeed his last.

|TOP|While the crusade phase of Graham’s evangelistic ministry may be over, “America’s pastor” still finds plenty to do. Graham recently participated in the recent groundbreaking ceremonies for a new Billy Graham Library – an innovative and interactive facility that chronicles his life. He is now working on a book.

"Ruth and I have enjoyed our time together these last few months, and we both feel at peace about the decision to have the New York meetings be our last," said Graham. "We know that God can still use us to reach people with the Gospel message in other ways, and we look forward to seeing how He will do so."

Most recently, the Grahams are ministering to Hurricane Katrina victims. They offered their old home up as shelter to a New Orleans family.

Although his public role with the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association has diminished, Graham is still Chairman of the BGEA’s Board of Directors, and attends these meetings as often as his health allows.






Rhoda Tse
Christian Today Correspondent