Pat Robertson, Pioneer of Christian Broadcasting, Dies at Age 93
Religious Broadcaster Pat Robertson, Known for "700 Club," Passes Away
Pat Robertson, a prominent figure in American religious
broadcasting and politics, has died at the age of 93. The news of Robertson's
passing was confirmed by his broadcasting network, the Christian Broadcasting
Network (CBN). Throughout his life, Robertson played a pivotal role in shaping
the landscape of Christian broadcasting, Republican Party politics, and
religious activism in the United States. His legacy includes the establishment
of CBN, the founding of the Christian Coalition, and his significant influence
on the relationship between conservative Christians and the Republican Party.
A Life Dedicated to Religion, Broadcasting, and Political Activism
Born on March 22, 1930, in Lexington, Virginia, Pat Robertson
grew up to become an influential religious broadcaster and political figure.
After serving in the military during the Korean War, Robertson pursued a law
degree from Yale University but decided not to pursue a legal career after
failing the bar exam. Instead, he embraced his religious calling and obtained a
master's degree in divinity from New York Theological Seminary.
Founding the Christian Broadcasting Network and the "700 Club"
In 1961, Robertson founded the Christian Broadcasting Network
(CBN) in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The network quickly gained popularity
through its flagship program, the "700 Club." Robertson's innovative
use of the talk-show format, combined with a religious focus, attracted a large
audience and made him a familiar presence in American living rooms for over
five decades. He invited a diverse range of guests, including U.S. presidents,
to discuss various topics with a religious perspective.
Political Aspirations and Influence on Republican Politics
Robertson's foray into politics came in 1988 when he ran for
the Republican presidential nomination. He employed a unique strategy of
soliciting pledges from three million followers before officially announcing
his candidacy, which helped him build a dedicated base of supporters. While he
ultimately endorsed George H.W. Bush, his campaign and subsequent endorsement
marked a turning point in the relationship between conservative Christians and
the Republican Party. Robertson's efforts in mobilizing evangelical voters and
founding the Christian Coalition solidified the alliance between religious
conservatives and the GOP.
Legacy and Controversial Pronouncements
Throughout his career, Pat Robertson was known for his
outspoken and sometimes controversial statements. His pronouncements often
linked natural disasters to what he considered moral issues, including
homosexuality and the teaching of evolution. He faced criticism for attributing
the 9/11 attacks to God's judgment and making negative remarks about Islam.
Robertson's comments on various topics, including politics and social issues,
frequently garnered media attention and sparked debate.
Robertson's Philanthropic Ventures and Humanitarian Work
In addition to his broadcasting and political endeavors, Robertson
established Regent University, an evangelical Christian school in Virginia
Beach, and the American Center for Law and Justice, which advocates for the
First Amendment rights of religious individuals. He also founded Operation
Blessing, an international humanitarian organization that provides aid to those
in need.
Robertson's Personal Life and Family
Pat Robertson married Adelia "Dede" Elmer in 1952,
and they had four children, 14 grandchildren, and 24 great-grandchildren. Dede
Robertson passed away in 2022 at the age of 94. Robertson's son, Gordon
Robertson, succeeded him as the chief executive of CBN in 2007.
Remembering Pat Robertson's Impact
Pat Robertson leaves behind a lasting legacy as a pioneering
religious broadcaster, political figure, and influential leader in conservative
Christian circles. His contributions to Christian broadcasting, his political
activism, and his efforts to shape the alliance between conservative Christians
and the Republican Party have left an indelible mark on American society.
Honoring a Legacy of Religious Broadcasting and Political Influence
Pat Robertson's passing marks the end of an era in American
religious broadcasting and conservative politics. Throughout his life, he
utilized the power of television to spread his message and influence millions
of viewers. From the establishment of CBN and the "700 Club" to his
founding of the Christian Coalition, Robertson's impact on the intersection of
religion and politics in the United States cannot be understated. While his
outspoken nature and controversial pronouncements garnered both praise and
criticism, his legacy as a trailblazer in religious broadcasting and political
activism will endure.
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