Jimmy Swaggart Passes Away at 90
Televangelist and gospel music figure Jimmy Swaggart died on Tuesday at the age of 90 due to cardiac arrest.
“The Swaggart Brothers have completed his earthly journey and are now with his Savior, Jesus Christ,” stated a post on Swaggart’s official Facebook account on Tuesday morning.
“Today was the day he had sung about for decades. He met his beloved Savior and entered the portal of glory. At the same time, I find comfort in knowing I will see him again one day,” a family member shared.
“For more than 70 years, my brother Swaggart preached the gospel, singing songs of faith and showing millions the saving power of Jesus Christ and the baptism of the Holy Spirit. His voice echoed across the nation, and his music remained constant.
“He was more than just a preacher; he was a worshiper, a warrior, and a testament to God’s grace and mercy. He was a man of unwavering faith, always stepping through the doors opened by the Lord. The Lord honored that faith.”
Just last month, Swaggart experienced a heart attack and had not regained consciousness since.
Early Life and Ministry
Born in Ferriday, Louisiana, on March 15, 1935, Swaggart felt called to preach by God at the age of eight. Later, he became the pastor of the Assembly of God in 1961.
He gained fame as a preacher during the 1970s and 1980s, launching his Radio, Television, and Music Ministry. Swaggart also organized various evangelistic crusades both in the U.S. and internationally, including significant events in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Related to rock and roll icon Jerry Lee Lewis, Swaggart was also a musician, releasing numerous albums over the years. Reports indicate that he sold over 17 million recordings.
Controversies and Redemption
In 1987, Swaggart publicly admitted to moral failings after a scandal involving a photograph of him with a New Orleans prostitute.
“I take full responsibility for my actions. I acknowledge my mistakes and understand the burden it places on my fellow TV ministers and evangelists,” he stated at the time.
Despite the scandal, he continued his work as an independent Pentecostal preacher after parting ways with the Assembly of God. He faced another controversy in 1991 when he was stopped by police while driving an unregistered vehicle with another prostitute.
Impact on Christian Broadcasting
In the years following his scandals, Swaggart initiated the Sonlife Radio Network in 1995, which expanded to numerous stations across the U.S. and internationally. In April 2010, he launched the SonLife Broadcasting Network.
Condolences for the Swaggart Family
“Please keep sisters Francis, Donnie, Debbie, Gabriel, Jill, Jennifer, Cliff, Matt, Joanna, Sam, Ryder, Abby, Laura, Harper, Navy, Harrison, Caroline, and Mackenzie in your prayers,” the family’s Facebook statement requested.
“The family expresses gratitude to the staff, doctors, and nurses at Baton Rouge General Medical Center for their exceptional support and care during this time.”
