Dr Charles Stanley, a prominent Baptist preacher and the founder of In Touch Ministries, died on Tuesday, April 18, 2023, at his home in Atlanta. He was 90 years old. His death was announced by In Touch Ministries, but no cause of death was revealed. Dr Stanley was a respected and influential leader in the evangelical world, who reached millions of people through his radio and television broadcasts. He was also the senior pastor of First Baptist Church Atlanta for over 50 years, until he retired in 2020.
A Life of Obedience and Faith
Dr Stanley was born on September 25, 1932, in Dry Fork, Virginia. He grew up in a poor and abusive household, where his father beat him and his mother. He became a Christian at the age of 12, after hearing a sermon on John 3:16. He felt a call to ministry at the age of 14, and preached his first sermon at the age of 16.
He graduated from the University of Richmond with a bachelor’s degree in journalism in 1955. He then earned his master’s degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 1959, and his doctorate from Luther Rice Seminary in 1967. He married Anna Johnson in 1958, and they had two children, Andy and Becky.
He served as a pastor in several churches in Virginia and Florida, before moving to Atlanta in 1969 to become the associate pastor of First Baptist Church. He became the senior pastor in 1971, and led the church to grow from 5,000 to 15,000 members. He also founded In Touch Ministries in 1972, which started as a radio program and expanded to television, magazines, books, podcasts, and online platforms. Through In Touch Ministries, Dr Stanley reached millions of people around the world with his biblical teachings and practical wisdom.
Dr Stanley was known for his clear and simple presentation of the gospel, his emphasis on obedience to God’s will, and his personal stories of faith and perseverance. He wrote over 50 books, including bestsellers such as The Gift of Forgiveness, How to Listen to God, and The Blessings of Brokenness. He also received numerous awards and honors for his ministry, such as the National Religious Broadcasters Hall of Fame Award, the Gideon International Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Christian Broadcasting Network Lifetime Achievement Award.
A Legacy That Will Last Forever
Dr Stanley’s death has left a void in the hearts of many who loved and admired him. His family, friends, church members, ministry partners, and fans have expressed their grief and gratitude for his life and ministry. His son Andy Stanley, who is also a pastor and the founder of North Point Ministries, posted a tribute on Instagram saying:
“My dad died this morning. I love him more than words can express. I am so grateful for him. I am so grateful for what he taught me about God. I am so grateful for what he taught me about being a man. I am so grateful for what he taught me about being a husband. I am so grateful for what he taught me about being a father.”
In Touch Ministries also released a statement saying:
“In Touch Family, this morning God called our beloved pastor Dr Charles Stanley home to heaven. Dr Stanley lived a life of obedience and is now receiving the joy of his soul-seeing his Savior face-to-face. Please join us in praying for the Stanley family.”
According to In Touch Ministries, anyone can visit the church and pay their respects to Dr Stanley as he reposes at the church on April 29, 2023, Saturday, between the hours of 10 am to 4 pm. However, the memorial service for Dr Stanley will be a private affair in which only close family and friends will be allowed.
Dr Charles Stanley is survived by his daughter Becky, son Andy, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. His ex-wife Anna Stanley died in 2014.
Dr Charles Stanley was a man who devoted his life to serving God and sharing His love with others. He left behind a legacy that will last forever in the lives of those who were touched by his ministry. He will be greatly missed by many who looked up to him as a spiritual father and mentor.
May he rest in peace.
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