Billy Graham once said, “Our youth are desperately searching for purpose and meaning in their lives. They are searching for fulfillment … I believe that a return to Biblical conversion, faith, and conviction would have a great impact in our day.”
Even in his early ministry, Billy Graham recognized the importance of sharing the Gospel with young people. His first evangelistic efforts beginning in 1945 were with Youth for Christ, where he became the organization’s first full-time evangelist. He began preaching across the United States, Canada and England, sharing with young people the message of hope Christ proclaimed 2,000 years earlier.
This legacy continues at the Billy Graham Library, which welcomes students of all grade levels and offers a range of resources designed to make a field trip to the Library one that leaves an eternal impact.
STEAM Field Trip
A STEAM field trip at the Billy Graham Library is a one-day educational experience that integrates science, technology, engineering, art and math with the story of Billy Graham’s life and ministry.
Through interactive lessons, including The Journey of Faith tour, the program traces Billy Graham’s story from his upbringing on a dairy farm in Charlotte, North Carolina, to his calling as a preacher and his evangelistic ministry across six continents. Students leave with a deeper appreciation of how one life surrendered to God can impact millions around the world.
STEAM field trips are offered from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on select dates.
Press Passes and Bessie’s Brainteasers
For student groups unable to attend the full-day STEAM program, regular field trips include a self-guided Journey of Faith tour with vintage press pass lanyards and a scavenger hunt called Bessie’s Brainteasers.
The press passes invite students to step back in time as part of Billy Graham’s team. Each card includes a biography and photo, along with questions on the back to answer during the tour. Students can keep their passes as a souvenir and receive a free gift upon completing the Bessie’s Brainteasers scavenger hunt.
Online Lesson Plans
The Library’s website offers a number of online lesson plans for all grade levels, including Billy Graham and racial equality, the Cold War and the music of the ministry. Each lesson aligns with state and federal standards and includes primary source materials and activities to support learning before, during and after a visit.
Are you a teacher or parent looking for a way to engage your young people while nurturing their faith? Find out more about Student Groups here, or send an email to LibraryStudents@bgea.org.