Scripture speaks often to the importance and significance of friendship. According to Proverbs 17:17, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity,” and Psalm 133:1 states, “Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity.” In the Bible, friendship is one of the greatest connections you can have – it’s nearly familial in significance. Even The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines the word “friend” as “one attached to another by affection or esteem.”

Billy Graham held two friends from his youth to this level of significance. Grady and T.W. Wilson not only grew up with Billy, but also became integral members of the early team of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. In his autobiography, Just As I Am, Billy Graham wrote, “The dedicated men and women working with us have been willing to do anything and everything. In the case Grady and T.W. Wilson, both now gone to be with the Lord, the ties go back to our youth. They were the Heaven-sent ones who propped me up … ”

At the Billy Graham Library, you have the opportunity to become a Friend of the Library. Just as the friendship of Grady and T.W. Wilson were highly treasured by Billy Graham, so too are our “Friends.” A Friend of the Library is someone who generously “props up” (donates to) the mission of the Library on a monthly basis. In 1949, at the Los Angeles Crusade that launched Billy onto the international stage, he was unable to preach one night due to laryngitis. Grady stepped in and allowed the Crusade to continue. Billy said of Grady’s preaching, “…the Holy Spirit used him to point people to Christ.” Your donation can also help continue the ongoing Crusade of Billy Graham by sharing the simple Gospel message he preached for more than 70 years.

Dr. David Bruce, Executive Vice President of the Billy Graham Library and the new Billy Graham Archive & Research Center, describes the enormity of the significance of what the Friends of the Library give:

“Being a Friend of the Library (FOL) is a powerful way to help support the Gospel initiative of the Billy Graham Library.  In the end, all that happens within the ministry of the Library and its activities, special grounds, and events point to promoting the truth of Jesus and the promise of eternity with Him. We are privileged to note the incredible support that FOL members provide to the work of the Library – and we encourage you to engage in 2023 with your prayer, financial support and attendance – all the while encouraging your friends, family members, Pastor and church members to join you in Charlotte for all the Library offers.”

When you become a Friend of the Library, you’ll also receive special benefits here at the Library:

• Exclusive event invitations with special guests
• A commemorative lapel pin
• 10% discount in Ruth’s Attic Bookstore and the Graham Brothers Dairy Bar
• Newsletters that update you on life-changing stories and upcoming events

Consider becoming a Friend of the Library, and join with us in sharing Christ with guests from all over the world who enter the cross-shaped doors of the Library. Find out more.

“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” – 1 Peter 4:10