Religious leaders Billy Graham, Rick Warren and Samuel Rodriquez are part of a list of 40 people who “radically changed the world,” compiled by Charisma magazine, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this month.
“We agonized over the list, knowing it would not please everyone,” wrote Steve Strang, chief executive and founder of Charisma.
Still, by looking at the newsmakers covered by Charisma, the staff was able to identify 40 people who were “greatly touched by God and … used by God to influence millions of people,” Mr. Strang wrote.
The staff excluded anyone directly connected with their organization and decided to honor as many living figures as possible.
Their final 40 included Mr. Graham, the legendary evangelist; Mr. Warren, known for his worldwide ministries and “The Purpose-Driven Life”; Mr. Rodriguez, president of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference; Pat Robertson, host of “The 700 Club” and chairman of the Christian Broadcasting Network; Jonathan Cahn, rabbi and prophetic author; Brooklyn megachurch pastor A.R. Bernard; and Joyce Meyer, the prolific author and speaker about “Enjoying Everyday Life.”
Included among the 13 deceased leaders are Fuschia Pickett, a noted Bible teacher and author; Dennis Bennett, who inspired and wrote about the early charismatic movement; gospel singer Andrae Crouch; and Myles Munroe, the Bahamian evangelist killed with his co-pastor wife, Ruth, in an airplane crash in November.
Charisma magazine was founded in 1975 to offer readers news “from a Spirit-filled perspective.” The company now also offers a range of newsletters and digital products in addition to its flagship publication.
• Cheryl Wetzstein can be reached at cwetzstein@washingtontimes.com.
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