In 1962 the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA) purchased a struggling magazine in Great Britain. The Christian was founded in 1859 and extensively covered the ministry of Dwight L. Moody. While it flourished during this time, it eventually suffered from diminished subscriptions and was on the brink of being closed when the BGEA acquired the publication.

“Dr. James D Douglas of Scotland, a well-known editor and theologian, then took the helm. Jim turned The Christian into a relevant and respected evangelical periodical that made significant impact during the seven years it was published [by the BGEA],” said Billy Graham in his autobiography, Just As I Am.

Unfortunately, the turn-around of The Christian only temporarily postponed the ultimate end of its printing. “In spite of concerted efforts… its paid circulation seldom went above 15,000.” The last issue of the weekly, interdenominational magazine was published on May 30, 1969.