The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association has launched the Billy Graham Defence Fund, a $1.25 million initiative aimed at supporting Christians in the UK who face legal challenges while sharing their faith.
This fund was established after the association won a court case against seven UK venues that canceled Franklin Graham’s events in 2020 despite having signed contracts.
The association was awarded £500,000 in compensation, which, combined with a matching gift from Samaritan’s Purse, now totals over $1.2 million.
The fund will provide financial resources for Christians facing legal battles, including, Legal Support Funding for organizations that provide legal assistance to Christians facing prosecution for sharing their faith.
Awareness and Education, Bringing attention to the tensions between religious liberty and free speech, particularly for police officers and authorities.
Grant-making, Providing grants to organizations like Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) and International Christian Concern that support Christians in legal disputes.
Franklin Graham emphasized that the fund is a response to the challenges faced by Christians in the UK and a way to help them share their faith freely and boldly.
The fund has already contributed to the legal defense of Christians in Europe, including cases involving street preachers and individuals who have faced prosecution for silent prayer near abortion clinics.