Thursday morning (June 8, 2023) brought the somber news of the passing of former Southern Baptist Minister, religious broadcaster, and one-time presidential candidate, Pat Robertson. At the age of 93, this influential figure left behind a rich tapestry of accomplishments and contributions. The Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN), an organization he founded in 1960, announced the loss of its visionary leader. Regent University, the esteemed institution he established in 1977, also mourned the passing of its founder. As we reflect on the life and legacy of Pat Robertson, we celebrate his unwavering commitment to his faith, his impact on Christian broadcasting, and his tireless dedication to sharing the gospel.
A Life Dedicated to Serving God:
Pat Robertson’s journey began on March 22, 1930, and took a profound turn in 1950 when he gave his life to Christ. In 1960, he was ordained as a minister in the Southern Baptist Convention by the Freemason Street Baptist Church of Norfolk. Though his ordination vow was terminated in 1988 due to his presidential campaign, Robertson’s passion for ministry remained steadfast. He became widely recognized through his talk show, ‘700 Club,’ which served as a platform for religious and political news commentary. Against his aspirations of becoming a businessman, Robertson obediently responded to God’s call to establish the Christian Broadcasting Network. Today, CBN reaches millions worldwide, providing programming, prayer support, and humanitarian aid.
A Global Impact:
What started as a vision has blossomed into a multifaceted nonprofit organization. CBN delivers programming through various mediums, including cable, broadcast, and satellite, reaching approximately 200 countries. The organization’s 24-hour telephone prayer line offers spiritual guidance to those in need. CBN’s international ministry has bridged cultural and linguistic barriers, sharing the message of hope in 122 different languages, from Mandarin to Spanish, and from Turkish to Welsh. Pat Robertson’s legacy extends beyond broadcasting, as he established charity organizations such as Operation Blessing and The Flying Hospital. These endeavors have positively impacted countless lives, offering relief and healing to the vulnerable and underserved.
A Life Well Lived:
In October 2021, during CBN’s 60th anniversary, Pat Robertson announced his decision to step down as a daily host. This marked a transition in his dynamic career, allowing him to reflect on a lifetime of service and devote more time to his family. Robertson is survived by his four children, 14 grandchildren, and 24 great-grandchildren. We also remember his beloved wife, Adelia “Dede” Robertson, who passed away in April 2022. As we bid farewell to a remarkable man, we cherish his unwavering faith, his indelible contributions, and the inspiration he provided to countless individuals around the world.
Mourning the death of the renowned religious leader, Pastor Kenneth Copeland took to twitter to share this:
“Well done, good and faithful servant.”
Pat Robertson, longtime friend of Kenneth & Gloria Copeland, transitioned to heaven today, & these are the words we imagine he heard from Jesus the moment he entered into His presence.
See our full post on the KCM Facebook page. pic.twitter.com/lzdcSFm4XY
— Kenneth Copeland (@CopelandNetwork) June 8, 2023
In the spirit of the mourning of the loss of Pat Robertson, Pastor Jesse Duplantis also took to twitter to share this :
Dr. Pat Robertson has transitioned into his heavenly home and into the precious arms of His Savior. Today we honor his extraordinary life and anointed ministry. Please join us in prayer for his family and the ministry of CBN as they carry on his legacy. pic.twitter.com/QKfE8ZsdmE
— Jesse Duplantis (@jesse_duplantis) June 8, 2023
In the same vein, the 700 Club also had this to share on Twitter:
Pat Robertson has gone home to be with his Lord and Savior today. Thank you for your prayers for the Robertson family and the ministry of CBN at this time. Please visit our website, https://t.co/g9tV9QlyNx, for further details. #PatRobertson #PatRobertsonCBN pic.twitter.com/uG1Qx6U7bv
— The 700 Club (@700club) June 8, 2023
The world has lost a visionary leader, an educator, an author, and a philanthropist. Pat Robertson’s steadfast commitment to glorifying the Lord and sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ will forever be remembered. His legacy lives on through the enduring impact of the Christian Broadcasting Network, the transformative work of charity organizations, and the countless lives touched by his ministry. Let us honor his memory by carrying forward his mission to spread love, compassion, and the message of hope to a world in need. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
May the soul of Pat Robertson and the souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace.
