Charles Stanley was a highly respected American pastor, author, and televangelist whose life and ministry deeply impacted millions across the globe. As the founder of In Touch Ministries and longtime pastor of First Baptist Church of Atlanta, he dedicated over six decades of his life to preaching the Word of God with power, clarity, and compassion. His legacy continues to inspire Christians around the world through his timeless messages and writings.
Quick Facts about Charles Stanley
| Full Name | Charles Frazier Stanley |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | September 25, 1932 |
| Place of Birth | Dry Fork, Virginia, United States |
| Date of Death | April 18, 2023 |
| Age (at Death) | 90 years |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Pastor, Author, Televangelist |
| Church | First Baptist Church of Atlanta |
| Famous For | Founder of In Touch Ministries |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Children | Two (Andy Stanley and Becky Stanley) |
| Net Worth (at Death) | Estimated between $1.5 million – $2 million |
Early Life and Background
Charles Frazier Stanley was born on September 25, 1932, in Dry Fork, Virginia, USA. Tragically, his father died when he was only nine months old, leaving his mother, Rebecca Stanley, to raise him alone during the difficult Great Depression era.
Despite facing hardship, young Charles developed a strong faith in God. At age 12, he accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior and felt the call to ministry. This early encounter with God became the foundation for the rest of his life and calling.
Education
To prepare for his pastoral calling, Charles Stanley pursued his education diligently. He obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Richmond and later earned a Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Texas.
He furthered his education by earning both a Master of Theology and a Doctor of Theology degree from Luther Rice Seminary in Florida. His strong academic background greatly enriched his preaching, teaching, and writing ministries.
Ministerial Journey and Career
Charles Stanley began preaching at a young age and served in several churches within the Southern Baptist Convention. His ministry grew in influence and effectiveness due to his powerful preaching and unwavering commitment to biblical truth.
In 1971, he became the Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church of Atlanta, one of the most prominent churches in the United States. Under his leadership, the church experienced massive growth and became a megachurch with tens of thousands of members.
In 1977, he founded In Touch Ministries, an organization created to broadcast his sermons and teachings worldwide through radio, television, and digital platforms. His program, In Touch with Dr. Charles Stanley, became one of the most-watched Christian broadcasts globally, airing in more than 50 languages.
He also served as the President of the Southern Baptist Convention from 1984 to 1986, playing a key role in the conservative resurgence of the denomination.
Books and Publications
Dr. Stanley was also a prolific author who wrote over 60 inspirational books that have sold millions of copies around the world. His writings focused on faith, prayer, personal growth, and walking closely with God.
Some of his best-selling books include:
- How to Listen to God
- The Wonderful Spirit-Filled Life
- The Blessings of Brokenness
- Success God’s Way
- Every Day in His Presence
- Courageous Faith
Through these works, Charles Stanley helped believers grow spiritually and live with strong faith and purpose.
Family and Personal Life
Charles Stanley was married to Anna Johnson Stanley for over 40 years. Their marriage, however, ended in divorce in 2000 after a long period of separation. Despite this challenge, Stanley remained committed to his ministry and chose never to remarry.
The couple had two children — Andy Stanley, who followed in his father’s footsteps as the founder and pastor of North Point Ministries in Alpharetta, Georgia, and Becky Stanley, who has largely stayed out of the public spotlight.
Stanley’s humility and steadfast devotion to his calling earned him immense respect, even amid personal trials.
Achievements and Legacy
Throughout his ministry, Charles Stanley achieved extraordinary success as a preacher, author, and broadcaster. His contributions to Christian ministry earned him countless awards and global recognition.
Some of his major achievements include:
- Founding In Touch Ministries, one of the world’s largest Christian media ministries.
- Serving as President of the Southern Baptist Convention for two terms.
- Writing over 60 influential Christian books.
- Reaching millions of people through radio, television, and online sermons.
- Inspiring global Christian growth through consistent biblical teaching.
Even after retiring as senior pastor in 2020, Stanley’s influence continued through In Touch Ministries, where his sermons still bless millions worldwide.
Death
Dr. Charles Stanley passed away peacefully at his home in Atlanta, Georgia, on April 18, 2023, at the age of 90. His death marked the end of a remarkable era in Christian ministry.
He left behind a legacy of faith, service, and biblical teaching that continues to inspire generations of pastors and believers around the world.
Net Worth
At the time of his passing, Charles Stanley’s net worth was estimated between $1.5 million and $2 million. His income came primarily from his ministry, book sales, and broadcasting. Despite his global influence, he lived modestly and was known for his integrity and humility.
FAQs
In this section, I will provide you with some FAQs and answers about Charles Stanley. Keep on reading, friend!
1. Who was Charles Stanley?
Charles Stanley was an American pastor, author, and founder of In Touch Ministries. He was also the longtime pastor of First Baptist Church of Atlanta and served as President of the Southern Baptist Convention.
2. How old was Charles Stanley when he died?
Charles Stanley was 90 years old when he passed away on April 18, 2023.
3. What was Charles Stanley known for?
He was best known for founding In Touch Ministries, his powerful biblical teachings, and his long tenure as pastor of First Baptist Church of Atlanta.
4. Who are Charles Stanley’s children?
Charles Stanley had two children — Andy Stanley, a pastor and founder of North Point Ministries, and Becky Stanley.
5. What was Charles Stanley’s net worth?
At the time of his death, Charles Stanley’s net worth was estimated between $1.5 million and $2 million.
6. What are some of Charles Stanley’s most popular books?
Some of his popular books include How to Listen to God, Success God’s Way, The Wonderful Spirit-Filled Life, and The Blessings of Brokenness.
7. What is In Touch Ministries?
In Touch Ministries is a global Christian organization founded by Charles Stanley in 1977 to spread the message of the Gospel through television, radio, and online media.
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Charles Stanley’s life is a true reflection of dedication, faith, and spiritual leadership. From humble beginnings in Virginia to global ministry impact, he remained focused on sharing the Gospel and guiding believers to trust in God’s Word.
Through In Touch Ministries and his timeless teachings, Dr. Stanley’s influence will continue to inspire future generations to walk closely with God and live a life of faith and obedience.