Billy Graham's Son to Give Invocation at Bush's Swearing-In

January 16, 2001

Source: The Washington Post

On January 16, 2001, The Washington Post reported that Franklin Graham, 48, had "been chosen to give the invocation at President-elect Bush's swearing-in ceremony Saturday" in place of his father, 82-year-old evangelist Billy Graham, who was too ill to attend. Rev. Kirbyjon Caldwell, "one of several black religious leaders who have voiced support of Bush's faith-based initiatives program," gave the benediction. "Franklin Graham said one thing he appreciates about the president-elect is his willingness to speak openly about his relationship to God...Billy Graham gave the invocation and benediction at the swearing-in of George H.W. Bush" and at both of Clinton's swearing-in ceremonies. "At the cathedral service, Franklin Graham will preach about the faith of the Founding Fathers, and Caldwell will join clergy from other faith traditions in offering prayers for the country and the new administration." Before his swearing-in Bush "will attend a private service at St. John's Church across from the White House...Although his parents are Episcopalians, the president-elect is Methodist, as is Cheney. Bush asked to worship at St. John's because of the Episcopal sanctuary's reputation as 'the church of the presidents.'...Every president since James Madison has worshiped there on some occasion."