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| - I was in the area for free peach ice cream at the regional farmer's market when I noticed the Billy Graham Library was nearby. I'm not exceptionally religious and I don't attend church anymore, but my entire family is extremely involved in their personal relationships with Jesus, so I figured I'd go in and get them some merch. Plus it's rated as a top destination in Charlotte.
The entrance was easy. Lots of trees for shade, which provided for a peaceful vibe. The parking lot is huge -- and quite packed -- and is directly next to Billy Graham's rebuilt childhood home and the library building, which has a large glass cross built into it. The idea is that we enter through the foot of the cross.
A lovely older lady opened the door to the library, asked if it was my first visit, and told me to go to Information to get a pamphlet about the "Journey of Faith" tour. The woman who greeted me at the Information Desk was so sweet that I couldn't get myself to say, "I actually just came in for a magnet" and soon I was standing in front of a talking/singing cow waiting for the introductory presentation to begin.
An hour and a half later, I had made my way through several videos documenting Billy Graham's life and that of his family members, a ton of artifacts, a room dedicated to his late wife, and even some international displays. The final room is aptly a salvation theater, where folks can hear the gospel message. Prior to walking in, cards are provided to say if you accepted Jesus into your heart or nah, and you can speak with a guest counselor after if you'd like to pray or learn more.
Now I grew up in the church and under the influence of Graham's teachings. That provided a good base to understand his ministry. I'm not sure how the museum would feel without a similar background. I know they're welcoming to anyone and everyone, and the people working throughout seriously could not have been nicer, but I'm sure it's a different experience. I'd say if you want to learn about Christianity and Graham, this is a nice, nonjudgmental place to start.
Now, there are things about and ideologies of Billy Graham that I personally do not like. He certainly hasn't been free from controversy over the years, and his family's outward, ongoing support of Donald Trump -- a horrible, disgusting man who degrades women, the disabled, and attacks the press whenever he can -- is truly mind-boggling to me. Just seeing Trump's face inside on the Presidents wall made me audibly cringe. I really do not like that man, and I don't see how he's any sort of testament to Christian teachings.
But of course, I don't agree with all of Graham's own beliefs about women either. Like the so-called "Billy Graham rule" -- his practice of not spending alone time with women other than his wife before she passed away in 2007. I think that's outdated, absurd, and unrealistic.
So I'd say going into the museum with an open mind is key, no matter your personal beliefs. Billy Graham, 98, is and has been a huge evangelist figure since 1949 in the States and across the globe. It is possible to view the museum primarily from a historical and cultural standpoint.
Beyond the actual exhibits and videos, there's also a huge gift shop with loads of books. I picked out one for my mom about prodigal children, of who I technically am, so I know she'll love it. I also snagged some affordable home decor items for family members, and a couple bookmarks. I actually never even bought a magnet.
After the bookstore, it's also possible to stop and eat in their on-site cafeteria. I opted to since I was hungry and it was right there/cheap. A combo chicken salad croissant, potato salad, and large coke only set me back $9.15. Nice!
In addition to his home and the library building, there's also a small memorial garden where Graham's wife is buried. It's quite serene.
On my way out the door, the same lady I spoke to earlier at Information asked about how I felt, encouraged me to take a visitor survey, and gave me a free etched tote with a prayer book and readings inside, which I will pass along. She said, "God bless you" as I left, and I returned the sentiment.
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