Thousands Gather for Franklin Graham’s ‘God Loves You Tour’ in the UK
A remarkable crowd of 8,000 people gathered at the Resorts World Arena in Birmingham to hear Reverend Franklin Graham’s message of hope as part of the ‘God Loves You Tour’. This event, held on 15 June, is one of the tour’s key stops, with another scheduled for 22 June in Glasgow at the OVO Hydro.
Franklin Graham, president and CEO of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA), expressed his excitement about returning to the UK. “This will be the ninth time I will have preached in the UK, and I’m just as excited as the first time 25 years ago,” Graham said. “I’m coming to share how people can have a real and personal relationship with God through His Son, Jesus Christ.”
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40 year anniversay of Billy Graham’s historic event
The Birmingham event is particularly significant, as it marks 40 years since Franklin Graham’s father, Billy Graham, preached to massive crowds at Villa Park in 1984. That historic outreach saw tens of thousands find faith in Jesus Christ, and this year’s event aims to inspire a new generation with a similar message of hope and renewal.
Local churches have been instrumental in bringing the tour to Birmingham. Revd. Kirk McAtear, pastor of Trinity Birmingham, highlighted the city’s unique demographic. “Birmingham, one of the youngest cities in Europe, is full of people searching for identity, hope, and purpose. The Gospel provides peace, healing, and answers to those who are searching,” McAtear said.
Reaching younger generations
The tour also addresses the spiritual needs of younger generations. Reuben Morley, the youth festival director for the tour, noted the growing enthusiasm among young attendees. “We’ve witnessed hundreds of Gen Z and Gen Alpha attendees at our pre-tour events. They are being equipped with tools to deepen their relationship with God and share their faith with others,” Morley said.
Adding to the tour’s appeal are performances by renowned musical guests. Three-time Grammy Award winner Michael W. Smith and Taya, formerly of Hillsong UNITED, known for the hit song “Oceans,” performed live, enhancing the uplifting atmosphere of the event.
The BGEA has made it a priority to ensure that as many people as possible can attend these events. Free bus services are being provided for churches wishing to bring groups from their communities.
The ‘God Loves You Tour’ continues its journey to Glasgow on 22 June, promising another evening of gospel messages and live music.
