A new Billy Graham statue is set to be unveiled at the U.S. Capitol building next week, marking a rare honor for the renowned evangelist. The seven-foot bronze statue, created by artist Chas Fagan, depicts Graham gesturing towards an open Bible in his hand, representing his lifelong commitment to sharing the Gospel. The unveiling ceremony is scheduled for May 16th, with remarks expected from House Speaker Mike Johnson and Rev. Franklin Graham, son of Billy Graham.
Rev. Franklin Graham expressed his gratitude for the statue, stating that it symbolizes his father’s message of God’s love, grace, and forgiveness. The statue will stand on a pedestal engraved with Bible verses highlighting Graham’s dedication to spreading the Gospel. Michael W. Smith, a three-time Grammy Award winner, is expected to perform at the event. The legacy of Billy Graham is based on his simple message of forgiveness, as evidenced by the verses inscribed on the statue’s base.
Billy Graham, who passed away in 2018 at the age of 99, spent over 80 years preaching to large audiences across six continents, reaching nearly 215 million people. He provided spiritual counsel to 12 sitting U.S. presidents and numerous world leaders, leaving behind a powerful legacy of faith. The statue of Graham is a result of bipartisan efforts to honor his contributions to society, with lawmakers passing legislation in 2015 to replace a former North Carolina governor’s statue with that of Graham.
The unveiling of the statue will take place in The National Statuary Hall, a location of historical significance within the U.S. Capitol building. Family members of the Graham family, along with Speaker Johnson, congressional representatives, and the North Carolina Statuary Hall Committee, are expected to attend the private dedication ceremony. The statue was created in Graham’s hometown of Charlotte and cast in bronze at a foundry in Seagrove, North Carolina, using Salisbury granite from a quarry in Rowan County.
Billy Graham’s statue joins a select few private citizens who have received the highest honors from Congress, including the Congressional Gold Medal and being laid in honor at the U.S. Capitol. The statue serves as a lasting tribute to Graham’s impactful ministry and his message of salvation through Jesus Christ. The unveiling of the statue at the U.S. Capitol represents a significant recognition of Graham’s contributions to faith and society, ensuring that future generations will be reminded of his teachings on God’s love and forgiveness.
