Rev. Billy Graham was honored during a statue unveiling ceremony at the U.S. Capitol on May 16, with speeches from House Speaker Mike Johnson, North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper, and Franklin Graham, Graham’s son. A statue of Graham was unveiled, symbolizing his influence as an ambassador for the Kingdom and his role in bringing people together. The statue replaced that of Charles Aycock, a former North Carolina governor, who symbolized a painful history of racism. The statue was created by Charlotte-based artist Chas Fagan in Graham’s hometown of Charlotte. Plans for a statue of Graham in the U.S. Capitol began shortly after his death in 2018.
North Carolina lawmakers passed legislation in 2015 to replace Aycock’s statue with one honoring Graham, who was still alive at the time. Each state is allowed two statues in the Capitol, but those honored must be deceased. Cooper acknowledged Graham’s imperfections but praised his dedication to delivering a message of redemption. Graham used his gifts to counsel and pray for political leaders of both parties, recognizing the importance of public servants. Franklin Graham noted his father’s humility in contrast to the statue’s prominence, insisting that his father would want the focus to be on Jesus Christ.
During the ceremony, Franklin Graham emphasized the message his father preached throughout his life, based on John 3:16, that God loved the world and sent his Son to save sinners. He stressed that his father believed in the Bible wholeheartedly and wanted future generations to be pointed towards their heavenly father and Jesus Christ. The statue unveiling marked a historic moment, with only four individuals in U.S. history honored with a Congressional Gold Medal, lying in state after death, and a statue at the U.S. Capitol. Graham was honored for his role as an ambassador and his efforts to bring people of different faiths and races together.
Graham’s statue was celebrated for symbolizing his influence as a man of faith and his impact on North Carolina and the nation. Cooper praised Graham’s ability to treat all with dignity and respect and his belief in redemption. Despite his imperfections, Graham was recognized for his commitment to delivering a message of salvation and redemption through Jesus Christ. The statue inscription included references to Bible verses highlighting the core message of Graham’s life and preaching. The unveiling ceremony highlighted Graham’s legacy and the impact of his work in spreading the Gospel.
The unveiling ceremony featured speeches from various dignitaries and a performance by singer Michael W. Smith. Speakers praised Graham for his ability to bring people together and noted his role as a leading ambassador for the Kingdom. Franklin Graham highlighted his father’s dedication to the message of Jesus Christ and his belief in the Bible. The event was celebrated as a significant moment in honoring one of America’s greatest citizens and enduring heroes. The statue unveiling marked a tribute to Graham’s legacy and his impact on the lives of many through his preaching and ministry work.
