Famous US preacher Jimmy Swaggart dies at 90 following heart attack. BBC
Famous American televangelist Jimmy Swaggart passed away at the age of 90. His family confirmed that he died after suffering a heart attack at his home in Baton Rouge on June 15. Doctors moved him to intensive care, but he didn’t recover.
A long journey of preaching and singing
Swaggart spent more than 70 years spreading his religious message. He preached, sang gospel music, and shared his faith with millions of people around the world. His church said he always spoke about the power of Jesus and the Holy Spirit.
A pioneer in televangelism
Swaggart started his media journey in the 1960s. He quickly became one of the first televangelists in the United States. By the 1980s, his sermons reached over 100 countries. He earned around $140 million each year through donations, music sales, and religious merchandise.
A man of dramatic worship
Swaggart was not just a preacher. He was a powerful speaker who believed in passionate and emotional services. His church in Baton Rouge could hold 7,000 people. People often cried and spoke in tongues during worship. This style is common in Pentecostal churches, the faith Swaggart followed.
Known for bold preaching
He called himself an “old-fashioned” preacher. He talked openly about the fight between good and evil. He strongly warned against sins, especially those related to the body. His fiery messages often left a strong impression.
Scandals shook his ministry
Swaggart’s powerful ministry took a major hit in 1988. That year, someone photographed him with a sex worker in New Orleans. The picture shocked many. He later appeared on TV and asked for forgiveness. He cried in front of his followers and admitted his wrongdoings.
In his own words, “I have sinned against you, and I beg you to forgive me.” His apology reached viewers worldwide.
Critic of others, later caught again
Before his scandal, Swaggart had strongly criticized other preachers involved in similar issues. He also made harsh comments about Catholicism and Judaism. He often claimed those religions were not valid, which upset many.
In 1991, Swaggart faced another scandal. He was again found with a sex worker, this time in California. But he didn’t apologize like before. Instead, he told his viewers, “The Lord told me it’s flat none of your business.”
Fall from religious networks
After his first scandal, Swaggart was removed from the Assemblies of God, a large group of Pentecostal churches. Religious TV networks dropped his shows. His once-huge ministry started to shrink. Legal problems related to taxes also added to his troubles.
A smaller stage but continued mission
Even after losing his place in big church circles, Swaggart never stopped preaching. He created his own broadcast channel and continued sharing his sermons with loyal followers until his death. His ministry became smaller but remained active.
End of an era
Jimmy Swaggart’s life was full of passion, controversy, and faith. He changed religious broadcasting forever and left behind a complex legacy.
