Dr. Charles Stanley, a well-known pastor and televangelist, passed away on April 18th, 2023, at the age of 90. He was the senior pastor of the First Baptist Church of Atlanta, Georgia, and the president of In Touch Ministries, a Christian organization that produces radio and television programs, publishes books and magazines, and hosts conferences and seminars.
Dr. Stanley was born on September 25th, 1932, in Dry Fork, Virginia. He grew up in rural poverty, but his mother’s faith and prayers had a profound impact on his life. He became a Christian at the age of 12 and felt called to ministry. He graduated from the University of Richmond with a degree in political science and then earned a Master of Divinity degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas.
Dr. Stanley served as a pastor at several churches before joining the First Baptist Church of Atlanta in 1969. He became the senior pastor in 1971 and held the position until 2020, when he retired at the age of 88 due to health reasons. During his tenure, the church grew from 1,000 members to over 15,000 and became one of the largest and most influential churches in the United States.
In addition to his pastoral work, Dr. Stanley was a prolific writer and speaker. He authored more than 30 books, including “The Blessings of Brokenness,” “How to Listen to God,” and “The Gift of Forgiveness.” He also hosted the television program “In Touch with Dr. Charles Stanley,” which aired on over 500 stations around the world and reached millions of viewers each week.
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Dr. Stanley’s message, at least far moreso than his son, Andy, was centered on the gospel of Jesus Christ and the importance of a personal relationship with God. He emphasized the power of prayer, the authority of the Bible, and the need for repentance and obedience. His teachings were marked by clarity, simplicity, and a deep reverence for God.
Dr. Stanley’s death has been mourned by many in the Christian community and beyond. He was a beloved pastor, teacher, and friend to countless people around the world. His legacy will continue through the ministries he founded and the lives he touched. The In Touch Ministries website states, “Dr. Stanley’s deepest desire was for everyone to know and experience an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ.” May his life and ministry inspire us all to seek God with all our hearts and live for Him.
