Biography

A Life Dedicated to God’s Mission

William Goudie was born on May 6, 1857, in Channerwick, Scotland, to Christian parents. From his early childhood, he deeply loved the Holy Bible. The inspiring sermons of great preachers like D. L. Moody and Ira Sankey touched his heart and encouraged him to share God’s love with people around the world. One evening, during a revival meeting, young Goudie completely surrendered his life to Jesus Christ.

Early Life and Calling

To follow God’s calling, Goudie joined Richmond Bible College in 1879. After completing his studies and receiving ordination in London, he accepted the call to serve as a missionary in India.

Missionary Work in India

In 1882, William Goudie arrived in Chennai and began his ministry in George Town. Later, he served at the English Wesley Church in St. Thomas Mount. He quickly learned the local language and started preaching to the people in their own tongue.

In 1883, he moved to Tiruvallur, where he worked among the poor and the oppressed. His love and compassion for the downtrodden showed the true spirit of Christ’s ministry. Goudie cared for their spiritual, social, and economic well-being.

When he began to help the untouchables and lower castes, some higher caste groups opposed him. They even threw stones and spoiled food at him. But Goudie calmly replied, “You have thrown stones at me, but God will bless you with rice.”

Service During Hard Times

During the great famine and cholera outbreak (1889–1891), Goudie worked tirelessly to feed the hungry and care for the sick. He also started schools, hospitals, tailoring centers, and a lace industry in and around Ikkadu and Tiruvallur to support the poor and needy.

Final Years and Legacy

After 25 years of faithful service in India, William Goudie returned to England. He passed away on April 9, 1922, at the age of 65. People remembered him as the “Apostle of Ikkadu”, a true servant of God who lived and died spreading the message of Christ’s love.

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Life Story

Full Name: William Franklin Graham Jr.
Birth: November 7, 1918
Death: February 21, 2018
Birthplace: Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
Spouse: Ruth Bell
Salvation Experience: At the age of 16
Contribution: Preached the Gospel to millions around the world through crusades, radio broadcasts, magazines, and publications.

Early Life:
Billy Graham was born on November 7, 1918, in Charlotte, North Carolina, to Franklin and Morrow Graham. His family owned 200 acres of farmland and were deeply devoted to God. From a young age, Billy was active, disciplined, and encouraged by his parents to read the Bible, pray, and attend Sunday School. He loved reading, had friendships with African Americans, played baseball, and avoided bad habits. His parents prayed that he would grow up to serve God responsibly.

Salvation and Calling:
In 1934, Billy attended a 12-day revival meeting led by evangelist Mordecai Ham. He was deeply moved and at the age of 16, experienced a personal salvation, committing his life to Christ. In 1936, while visiting prisoners with evangelist Jimmy Johnson, he shared his faith, though initially shy and nervous.

He later studied at Florida Bible College for three and a half years, mastering Greek, church history, and public speaking. Billy practiced preaching outdoors, to children, and in small groups. His first sermon was delivered to a congregation of 30, and later, a sermon led to the salvation of 39 people. He was ordained as a Baptist pastor after completing his college education in 1940.

Ministry and Global Impact:
Billy married Ruth Bell, daughter of missionary Dr. Nelson Bell, and began preaching through the “Youth for Christ” organization on radio, gaining nationwide recognition. He traveled extensively across the United States, Canada, England, and other countries, reaching countless people through revival meetings and crusades.

He ministered to soldiers during the Korean War, preached in London, Scotland, and India, and held massive crusades in New York with millions attending. Over his lifetime, Billy Graham preached to over 100 million people globally and led millions to Christ.

He also founded the Evangelistic Association, trained hundreds of evangelists, published numerous books—including My Answer with over 1.75 million copies—and launched influential magazines like Christianity Today (1956) and Decision (1960). His ministry produced films, TV programs, and other media outreach, expanding the Gospel worldwide.

Even at 84, suffering from Parkinson’s disease, Billy Graham continued preaching and sharing the Gospel. He passed away on February 21, 2018. His children continue his legacy in Christian ministry.

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