“He who is called to and set apart for the work of an evangelist is to devote his time and effort single-mindedly to this God-given task. He is not to be distracted by anything likely to deflect him from this. Persecution will not weaken his resolution. The persuasion of others will fall on deaf ears. Only the clear leading of God will cause him to change his ministry.”

American evangelist and Southern Baptist minister

Billy Graham was an American evangelist, ordained Southern Baptist minister, and civil rights advocate, active in the 20th century. Born William Franklin Graham Jr., he became widely known for broadcasts and world tours built around live sermons. Over a career that lasted more than six decades, Graham rose to prominence as an evangelical Christian figure in the United States and abroad. His public work made him a familiar voice in religious broadcasting and large-scale preaching, and his influence extended well beyond the pulpit.