Jentezen Franklin is a respected American pastor, author, and televangelist known globally for his dynamic preaching style and inspirational messages. He serves as the senior pastor of Free Chapel, a multi-campus megachurch headquartered in Gainesville, Georgia. Beyond the pulpit, Franklin is also a best-selling author, musician, and television personality whose program “Kingdom Connection” reaches millions around the world.
Over the years, he has become one of the most influential Christian leaders of this generation, recognized for his emphasis on fasting, prayer, and spiritual growth.
Quick Facts about Jentezen Franklin
| Full Name | Jentezen Franklin |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | July 21, 1962 |
| Age | 63 years old (as of 2025) |
| Place of Birth | Wilson, North Carolina, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Pastor, Author, Televangelist, Musician |
| Known For | Senior Pastor of Free Chapel |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Wife | Cherise Franklin |
| Children | Five (including Courteney, Caressa, Caroline, Connar, and Drake Franklin) |
| Residence | Gainesville, Georgia, USA |
Early Life and Education
Jentezen Franklin was born on July 21, 1962, in Wilson, North Carolina, into a devout Christian family. His father, Billy Franklin, was a devoted minister who greatly influenced his spiritual upbringing. Jentezen grew up surrounded by faith, music, and the church, which shaped his calling into full-time ministry.
Before entering the ministry, Franklin attended Atlantic Christian College (now Barton College), where he studied tenor saxophone and pursued a passion for music. Initially, he had dreams of becoming a professional musician and even toured briefly as a saxophonist. However, he later received a divine call to pastoral ministry, which changed the course of his life.
Career and Ministry
Jentezen Franklin began his ministry journey as an assistant pastor at Free Chapel in Gainesville, Georgia. In 1989, he became the senior pastor following the retirement of Roy Wellborn, the church’s founder. Under Franklin’s leadership, Free Chapel experienced remarkable growth, transforming from a small congregation into one of the fastest-growing churches in the United States.
Today, Free Chapel operates multiple campuses across Georgia, California, and South Carolina, reaching thousands of worshippers each week.
Jentezen Franklin is best known for his Bible-based teachings on fasting, prayer, and the power of the Holy Spirit. His annual 21-Day Fasting Movement attracts believers from around the world who seek spiritual renewal at the beginning of each year.
In addition to pastoring, Franklin is the founder and host of “Kingdom Connection,” a weekly television program broadcast globally on major Christian networks such as TBN and Daystar. Through this platform, he shares hope, faith, and biblical truth to millions of viewers.
Books and Publications
Jentezen Franklin is a New York Times best-selling author, with several impactful Christian books that have inspired believers to live a life of purpose and discipline. Some of his most popular books include:
- “Fasting: Opening the Door to a Deeper, More Intimate, More Powerful Relationship with God”
- “Right People, Right Place, Right Plan”
- “Love Like You’ve Never Been Hurt”
- “Acres of Diamonds”
- “The Spirit of Python”
- “Fear Fighters”
His writings combine biblical insight with real-life experiences, making them relatable and transformative for readers worldwide.
Personal Life and Family
Jentezen Franklin is married to Cherise Franklin, his longtime partner and co-laborer in ministry. Together, they have five children — Courteney, Caressa, Caroline, Connar, and Drake Franklin.
The family lives in Gainesville, Georgia, where they actively serve the church and community. Jentezen and Cherise have maintained a strong marriage rooted in faith, love, and shared vision for ministry.
Cherise often joins her husband in church events and conferences, focusing on empowering women and supporting family-based ministries.
Net Worth
As of 2025, Jentezen Franklin’s net worth is estimated to be around $2 million to $3 million. His earnings come primarily from his ministry, book sales, and speaking engagements.
Despite his financial success, Franklin is known for his humility and charitable giving. He has been involved in various philanthropic initiatives, including food drives, disaster relief efforts, and educational support programs for underprivileged families.
Achievements and Influence
Over the years, Jentezen Franklin has received widespread recognition for his contributions to Christian ministry and leadership. Some of his most notable achievements include:
- Leading Free Chapel to become a thriving multi-campus church with a global outreach.
- Establishing the annual 21-Day Fasting Movement, which has impacted millions worldwide.
- Authoring multiple New York Times best-selling books.
- Hosting the globally broadcast “Kingdom Connection” television program.
- Supporting numerous charitable projects, including prison outreach and humanitarian aid.
His ministry continues to influence both new and mature believers, helping them grow spiritually and build a closer walk with God.
Jentezen Franklin’s Sermons and Messages
Jentezen Franklin’s sermons are broadcast weekly and are known for their depth, passion, and practical application. His messages often focus on:
- Spiritual fasting and renewal
- Family and relationships
- Overcoming fear and adversity
- The Holy Spirit’s power
- Faith, perseverance, and divine purpose
He preaches in a relatable and heartfelt manner, making the gospel accessible to people from all walks of life.
Legacy and Impact
Jentezen Franklin’s life and ministry have left a lasting legacy in the Christian community. His dedication to spreading the gospel through preaching, television, and literature has influenced countless lives.
Through his example, many young pastors have been inspired to lead with compassion, integrity, and faith. Franklin’s teachings on fasting, spiritual discipline, and the presence of God continue to empower believers globally to live a life of purpose and passion for Christ.
FAQs
In this section i will provide you with some FAQs and answers about Jentezen Franklin. Keep on reading, friend.
1. Who is Jentezen Franklin?
Jentezen Franklin is an American pastor, author, and televangelist best known as the senior pastor of Free Chapel in Gainesville, Georgia.
2. How old is Jentezen Franklin?
He is 63 years old, born on July 21, 1962.
3. Who is Jentezen Franklin’s wife?
He is married to Cherise Franklin, and they have five children together.
4. What is Jentezen Franklin’s net worth?
As of 2025, his estimated net worth is between $2 million and $3 million.
5. What church does Jentezen Franklin pastor?
He is the senior pastor of Free Chapel, headquartered in Gainesville, Georgia, with several campuses across the U.S.
6. What are some of Jentezen Franklin’s books?
Some of his popular books include “Fasting,” “Love Like You’ve Never Been Hurt,” and “Acres of Diamonds.”
7. What is Jentezen Franklin’s main message?
He emphasizes faith, fasting, prayer, and spiritual growth through the Word of God.
Jentezen Franklin’s journey from a musician to a global pastor reflects a life fully surrendered to God’s purpose. His ministry continues to shape lives around the world, reminding believers that true success comes from walking closely with God and serving others faithfully.
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