Billy Graham’s Granddaughter Nominated as Religious Freedom Ambassador
The president also nominated Andrew Brunson to serve on the commission
Cissie Graham Lynch has been nominated to serve as U.S. ambassador-at-large for international religious freedom. She is the daughter of evangelist Franklin Graham and the granddaughter of Billy Graham.
This position is responsible for advancing religious freedom around the world and serving as a key advisor to the president and secretary of state on issues involving religious liberty. Lynch’s nomination must be confirmed by the Senate. The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom welcomed the decision. “President Trump’s announcement is a vital step in advancing the human right of freedom of religion or belief abroad,” said Asif Mahmood, who is chair of the commission.
Since 2010, Lynch has been actively involved with the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and Samaritan’s Purse, serving in various capacities, including communications advisor and ministry spokesperson. She also has worked with Operation Heal Our Patriots, a program supporting veterans and their families. Her ministry focuses on advocating for women, children and vulnerable population by providing education, necessities, and spiritual guidance. Lynch launched her podcast, “Fearless,” in 2019, where she discusses faith, family and cultural issues, sharing personal stories and lessons learned from her family’s ministry She encourages listeners to explore scripture and take bold stands on moral and social issues.
READ: President shares Franklin Graham letter
“Cissie is uniquely qualified for this,” Franklin Graham posted on social media. “She has traveled the world and been a student of this issue for many years. She has a broad worldview and knowledge of the issues facing religious freedom today. If confirmed by the Senate, she will bring a passion for defending religious freedom to this office. I couldn’t be more proud of her, and I ask you to pray that God would give her wisdom and strength.”
Former prisoner also nominated
The president also nominated Andrew Brunson to serve on the commission. He spent two years imprisoned in Turkey on false charges after serving as a pastor in the country for 23 years, according to CBN News. Trump helped secure Brunson’s release in 2018. In recent years, he has been active in efforts to combat religious persecution and advocate for religious freedom around the world.
Trump also appointed Robert Barron, a Roman Catholic bishop of the Diocese of Winona-Rochester, and Joe Grogan, the former director of the U.S. Domestic Policy Council and assistant to President Trump, to serve on the commission.
“Filling these roles demonstrates the ongoing commitment of the United States to international religious freedom as a priority in foreign policy,” Mahmood said.
–Alan Goforth
