Historic Moment for Religious Expression in China

Photos Available: Franklin Graham Preaches to 12,000 in Hangzhou, China

SHANGHAI, China, May 12, 2008—Much has changed in the past 20 years since Franklin Graham first visited mainland China with his father, evangelist Billy Graham.  Sunday the younger Graham delivered a historic message, preaching to 12,000 people in the largest church in the nation.

"Franklin Graham's May 11 sermon at Hangzhou Chong-Yi Christian Church is very significant," said the United States Embassy in Beijing.  "It highlights the strong possibility for cooperation that exists between U.S. and Chinese religious institutions, and marks a positive path forward."

Preaching a Gospel message about the cross, the symbol of the Christian faith, Graham asked those in attendance to stand if they wanted to become followers of Jesus Christ.  1,250 people responded to the invitation.  According to senior pastor Rev. Joseph GU, this event was the largest gathering at the church.  Bibles were also given out to those who responded and the church will provide an eight week course for them on the basics of the Christian faith.

"My mother was born in China, so I've always had a love for this country, but I wasn't sure I'd ever have this opportunity or see this much change and progress here," said Graham, president and CEO of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and international Christian relief organization Samaritan's Purse. "To be able to come here and openly preach gives me great hope for religious expression in China."

Graham is in China visiting Beijing, Hangzhou, Nanjing, and Shanghai over 10 days (May 6-15) for official visits with government and church leaders.  "I believe it is more productive to meet face to face and encourage the progress that has been made here," Graham added.  "Stronger relationships are forming and a greater understanding of each other is being developed."

MEDIA AVAILABILITY

WHAT:      Franklin Graham will be available to media to discuss what he has seen and learned in China.

WHERE:   J.W. Marriott, Shanghai

WHEN:      Wednesday, May 14 at 3:00 p.m. (local time in Shanghai)

MEDIA NOTE:  High-resolution, downloadable photos of Franklin Graham preaching in China are available on this newsroom.  To request an interview contact Jeremy Blume in China at (404) 538-8589 (cell) or Todd Shearer in the U.S. office (770) 813-0000.

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