By Stefan J. Bos, Worthy News Europe Bureau Chief
KYIV/BUDAPEST (Worthy News) – American evangelist Edward Graham, 45, the grandson of the late preacher Billy Graham, has been on a preaching and prayer mission in war-torn Ukraine at Kyiv’s invitation, Worthy News learned Tuesday.
“Sunday was Independence Day in Ukraine, and my son Edward Graham was invited to pray and speak at their National Prayer Breakfast in Kyiv today,” said Franklin Graham, who is also an evangelist.
“There were many diplomats, dignitaries, and military representatives in attendance,” he added. “He told them that he personally understands the pain and horror of war, and that we are praying for peace and an end to the bloodshed. But most importantly, he said we are praying that the people of Ukraine will find a peace that no president or world leader can give: that can only come from putting your faith and trust in Jesus Christ.”
Franklin Graham stressed that “Edward also had the opportunity to meet with our [Christian charity] Samaritan’s Purse team serving in Ukraine. We are continuing to provide life-saving aid in Jesus’ Name, and we are beginning to help people prepare for another long, cold winter.”
Both men continue the tradition of their father and grandfather, the late evangelist Billy Graham, who traveled worldwide to preach the Gospel.
WAR IMPACT ON CHURCHES
Edward Graham also met with Ukrainian government officials at a time when President Zelenskyy seeks counseling and support on how to end the war that began with Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
“Lord we pray for peace that only can come through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,” he said in video footage seen by Worthy News. He recalled that his grandfather has a deep love for Ukraine.
More than a million people are believed to have been killed or injured in the current war devastating Ukraine, including devout Christians and church leaders.
The Ukrainian Council of Churches said recently that “since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion, 670 churches and houses of worship have been destroyed or damaged.”
They added that “60 clergy members from various churches and religious organizations have been murdered by Russian invaders,” and “many priests and pastors have been illegally arrested and held in Russian captivity.”
Franklin Graham urged Christians to “pray for [Ukrainian] President [Volodymyr] Zelenskyy, [Russian] President [Vladimir] Putin, and for [U.S.] President Donald J. Trump, and pray that God would work to bring peace.”
Copyright 1999-2025 Worthy News. This article was originally published on Worthy News and was reproduced with permission.
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