In a powerful celebration of life held for the late evangelist, Jimmy Swaggart, his son, Donnie Swaggart, gave an inspiring message to honor his father, the man he calls: “America’s greatest evangelist.”
The celebration of life service was held at 6:00 p.m. central time in Baton Rouge, Louisiana on Sunday, July 13, 2025 at the Family Worship Center. It began with uplifting worship to honor Swaggart’s legacy of ministry and music. Following this, Donnie Swaggart gave thanks to all those joining to celebrate his father’s legacy, including with special praise for his mother Frances Swaggart and a thanks to his father’s longtime friend, Kenneth Copeland. He also read through special condolence letters, including one from President Trump.
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Donnie discussed the love his father had for the distribution of the Expositor’s Bible, which he said was “The last ministry business dad was able to participate in” prior to going into the hospital. According to Donnie, the last ministry project his father saw was the completion for the Vietnamese New Testament Expositor’s Bible.
Clips highlighted Swaggart’s ministry over the years, and his songs were played in dedication to his musical legacy.
Donnie also told the story of how his father encouraged him to find his own voice as a minister when he began preaching, but not without first remembering the gravity of what it means to carry the gospel message. “‘Every time you stand to preach never forget you have people’s souls in your hands,'” Donnie said quoting his father.
From heartfelt messages from Swaggart’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren, it was obvious that one man’s simple “yes” to the Lord changed millions and generations for the glory of God.
Swaggart’s grandson, Matthew Swaggart, also recounted his grandfather’s final words: “Frances, let’s get up; it’s time to go to church.”
Matthew’s brother, Gabriel Swaggart, also spoke about his grandfather’s great impact on the world and his home going to heaven. “I felt like I lost my best friend,” says Matthew. “I believe millions of people were waiting on him, souls he prayed for, people he preached to and individuals who met Christ because of his obedience.”
In conclusion to the service, Donnie discussed how he and Gabriel will continue the work of the ministry, sharing the gospel with the entire world. “God has given this family a great heritage. But He’s also given us a Great Commission,” he says. “I am proud to be the son of Jimmy Swaggart.”
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As the sun sets on the life of Jimmy Swaggart, his legacy shines brighter than ever—a life marked by unwavering devotion to the gospel, a passion for souls and a family carrying the torch of faith into future generations. He lived a life in full pursuit of God’s calling, which serves as a reminder that for those who walk with Christ, even the end is just the beginning.
Prepared by Charisma Media Staff.
