Posted on Oct 15, 2008 | by Staff

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (BP)--Do you have a story about how Billy Graham's ministry has impacted your life? If so, his friends and family members would like to hear it -- and then deliver your story to the evangelist, who turns 90 on Nov. 7.

The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association has set up a website -- BillyGraham90.com -- where people can send Graham stories, birthday greetings or simply a note of thanks to the man who likely has preached the Gospel to more people than anyone in history. (Messages to Graham also can be mailed to: Billy Graham's 90th Birthday, Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, NC 28201.) The deadline for submissions is Nov. 1. The website also has materials to help churches promote the opportunity.

"My father is a humble man who would never expect to be honored and recognized like this on his birthday," Franklin Graham, the evangelist's eldest son, said in a news release. "We urge all who made a commitment to Jesus Christ through my father's ministry to share your story or simple greeting, as nothing could uplift him more on this special day."

The news release added that "all who have been personally touched by an aspect of Billy Graham's ministry are welcome and encouraged ... to share a greeting or a personal story about his ministry they feel would encourage Mr. Graham at this milestone."

All of the birthday messages to Graham will be compiled in books and presented to him during a tribute dinner with friends and family members.

The website already has posted some of the messages.

"Back around 1957 you were in Richmond, Va., in a Crusade, I felt the Holy Spirit and went forward and rededicated my life," one message reads. "I have never been the same. I started reading my Bible and over all these years have fallen more and more in love with the Lord. God Bless You."

In 60-plus years of ministry, Graham has preached the Gospel in person to nearly 215 million people, according to the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association.
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Compiled by Michael Foust, assistant editor of Baptist Press.