Franklin Graham Sparks Outrage with Controversial ‘Pray for Putin’ Appeal
In February 2022, evangelical leader Franklin Graham ignited a firestorm of criticism after urging his followers to “pray for President Putin today,” amid escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine. The call, posted on social media, was intended to encourage prayer for peace and divine intervention to prevent war. However, the message was met with backlash from various quarters, including political figures, media personalities, and members of the public.
The Controversy Unfolds
Graham’s appeal came at a time when the world was on edge, anticipating a potential Russian invasion of Ukraine. His message read: “Pray for President Putin today. This may sound like a strange request, but we need to pray that God would work in his heart so that war could be avoided at all cost.” While Graham’s intent was to promote peace, many perceived his focus on Putin as misplaced, especially given the mounting humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.The Independent+1
Critics quickly voiced their disapproval. Jon Cooper, former financial chair of a political action committee supporting President Joe Biden, expressed his astonishment on Twitter: “Trump-loving evangelist Franklin Graham just told his followers: ‘Pray for President Putin today.’ Unreal.” Similarly, Scott Huffman, a Democratic congressional candidate from North Carolina, criticized Graham’s remarks, stating, “Franklin Graham asks his followers to pray for Putin. Guess he forgot about the Ukrainians and our NATO allies.” These reactions highlighted the perception that Graham’s appeal was out of touch with the realities faced by those in Ukraine.premierchristian.news
Support and Defense
Not all responses were negative. Some individuals defended Graham’s call for prayer, emphasizing the Christian principle of praying for all leaders, regardless of their actions. Evangelical writer David French remarked, “I’ve had my criticisms of Graham, but attacks on him here are off base.” This perspective underscores the belief that prayer should encompass all individuals, even those whose actions are contentious.
The Broader Implications
The incident shed light on the complex interplay between religion and politics. Graham, known for his support of former President Donald Trump and conservative values, has often been a polarizing figure. His call to pray for Putin was seen by some as an extension of his political affiliations, raising questions about the role of religious leaders in political discourse.
Furthermore, the backlash against Graham’s appeal reflects broader societal divisions. In times of international conflict, public figures’ statements are scrutinized through the lens of national interests and alliances. Graham’s focus on praying for Putin, rather than the people of Ukraine or other world leaders, was perceived by many as an endorsement of the Russian president’s actions, further deepening the divide.
Conclusion
Franklin Graham’s “pray for Putin” appeal serves as a poignant example of how religious messages can intersect with global politics, often leading to unintended controversies. While the intent behind Graham’s message was to promote peace, the reception underscores the complexities of addressing international issues within a religious framework. As global tensions continue, the role of religious leaders in shaping public opinion and discourse remains a topic of significant debate.
