Billy Graham: North Carolina's Favorite Son - A Remarkable Journey of Faith

"Billy Graham: North Carolina's Favorite Son - 

A Remarkable Journey of Faith"

"The Gospel is this "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." John 3:16

Franklin Graham, at the NC Museum of History, Raleigh, NC
Exhibit Opening "Billy Graham: North Carolina's Favorite Son"
Photo: by CarolinaMama© 

That Jesus Christ is God in the form of human flesh, who comes out of heaven to save sinners from our sin. He died on the Cross in our place, to save us from our sins. "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life." Jesus died for us. If anyone puts their faith and trust in Him, He will save them from their sins. For all. That is my father's message even today, the message of the gospel. " by Franklin Graham

Franklin Graham, President and CEO of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association spoke at the press conference Introducing the NC Museum of History's Newest Exhibit: 

The life and story of a North Carolinian whom God has used to reach others for Christ.

It was endearing to hear Franklin Graham talk about his father, Billy Graham: 

Franklin Graham, President of BGEA
Photo: by CarolinaMama©

"On Saturday, November 7, Dad will take a bite out of every one of his Birthday Cakes. Last year, that was fifteen different cakes. He is doing well and doesn't have any ailments. His biggest issue is his hearing and his eye sight is not really good. When you are close, he knows who you are. His challenge is that he is 97 years of age.  

We are SO grateful that he is still with us today.  Dad has written latest and last book, "Where I Am" published this year at age 96 years. He misses Mother (Ruth Graham) very much.

This is going to give another generation the opportunity to see what God can do with your life, for any life that saying "yes" to Jesus Christ. An opportunity to see what God can do with a farm boy, that God can use to go around the world and preach the gospel. 

This Exhibit will give another generation an opportunity to see what God can do with saying Yes to Him with your life.  God can use a rural North Carolina boy.

"I am still convinced, only Christ can meet the deepest needs of our world and our hearts." 

Billy Graham 

On November, 6, 2015, the North Carolina Museum of History opens the exhibit, Billy Graham: North Carolina's Favorite Son - A Remarkable Journey of Faith. The 5,000 squad foot exhibit explores Billy Graham’s extraordinary life and a ministry that has spanned seven decades. The free exhibit, on view through July 10, 2016, is privately funded. It was developed and produced by the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. The exhibit title draws from the 2013 resolution passed by the N.C. General Assembly honoring the life of Graham’s wife, Ruth Bell Graham, and naming Billy Graham “North Carolina’s Favorite Son.” 

On Saturday, November 7, 2015, Billy Graham celebrate's his 97th Birthday!  

The exhibit explores Billy Graham’s extraordinary life and a ministry that has spanned seven decades. The  exhibit is no admission fee, on view through July 10, 2016, is privately funded, developed and produced by the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. The exhibit title draws from the 2013 resolution passed by the N.C. General Assembly honoring the life of Graham’s wife, Ruth Bell Graham, and naming Billy Graham “North Carolina’s Favorite Son - A Remarkable Journey of Faith.” 

See full exhibit details at http://ncmuseumofhistory.org/billygraham.

Hope you get to visit soon! 

Warmly, Carolina Mama

FTC Disclosure: I was invited to the Press Conference by the Billy Graham Evangelical Association. I was so happy to attend. All opinions are my own. 

Christmas at the Billy Graham Library and Other Events

"Being a Christian is more than just an instantaneous conversion - it is a daily process whereby you grow to be more and more like Christ."

                                                                         Billy Graham 

Growing up, I was fortunate that my heritage included Billy Graham.  One of my earliest memories is of Billy Graham on the television in our living room.  Seriously, I remember how his sermons ended with "Just As I Am" and the alter call where thousands came to Christ.  We would always watch right up to the part where "If you have questions, one of our Counselors is waiting to answer the phone and help you or you may write Billy Graham… Winnipeg, Minnesota."  :) Do you know Jesus? Click here.

I was so blessed to recently visit the Billy Graham Library for Christmas at the Library.  What a delight! 

Here is a look at the gorgeous real Christmas tree that greets you at the Library entrance! 

                                              

And on one of those amazing nights, I sat with my mother in my Daddy's big red chair and asked Christ into my heart. I am so glad she sat with me and prayed.  Whether you have just become a Christian, would like to be or if you have been raised in a Christian home, your conversion is the most important decision you'll ever make.  

Billy Graham Library, Charlotte, NC

With my Christian heritage and including Billy Graham, it is an immense honor to work with The Billy Graham Association.  Just before Thanksgiving, The Billy Graham Library in Charlotte, North Carolina, hosted a Bloggers Luncheon and "Girl's Night Out" there at the Library.  It was so lovely.  The Library was all Christmasy and beautiful.  Peaceful.  And I got to travel there from the Raleigh / Durham area with this sweet friend, Megan from Character Health.  Her blog and ministry has been such a blessing to so many.  She is a Mom of many, so her advice is helpful to Moms everywhere, especially since she is grounded in God's Word. 

Once we arrived, we bloggers had lunch there with some of the Staff.  We learned more about the Library and their goals and history.  It was all fascinating.

We toured the Billy Graham Library and learned so much more about Billy and Ruth Graham and his ministry.  Their family and the history.  There was so much peace there. 

As we learned the history and toured the Headquarters and Library, it was wonderful to see all 

of the media awards and other recognition received through the years.  I recall reading 

The Hiding Place in junior high so this was interesting to me.

Yes, this was intriguing to watch the Media reels from days of yore.  And to visualize how 

it has all changed so dramatically and how fascinating for this Social Media Mom.  

You can also tour the Billy Graham Home on the property.  It is beautiful and you can see all of the momentos of his early days and their married and family life.

We had such an extra- exciting Girls time at the "Ladies Night Out with Casey Schutrop.  She is an awesome speaker and author.  She was inspiring and we LOVED receiving her book, Grandma's Christmas Legacy! :) 

We even did a little shopping.  I LOVE this verse so this was my Coffee Mug. 

I am so happy they gave us this gift, the "Billy Graham, God's Ambassador, A Lifelong Mission of Giving Hope to the World." Our family is enjoying reading through this and looking at the inspiring pictures.  The boys are intrigued with the daughter named, Bunny. :)

Hey, Ladies, just so you know the Billy Graham Library knows how to treat Ladies Night Out, check out these treats that were in abundance.  Carrot Cakes, and so much more.

These Chocolate Chip Cookie Pies were yum as well.  

This table was my favorite, okay, not just because of the sweets because look at the 

Tartan! :)  LOVE It.  Everything was so festive. 

Even the Punch Bowl was lovely and convivial.  My mother would have been thrilled with all

the garland, and decor and the Southern crystal punch bowl.  Great recipe, too. 

Megan and I met another fabulous Christian devotional writer, Gail. And got to visit during our 

afternoon in the "Dairy Bar."  We all loved the community and camaraderie that we have and 

can share together.  

Visiting the Library is FREE.  Plan your visit now.  Plan on a lot of time well spent.  And you will want to shop Ruth's Attic Book Store.  There are so many wonderful resources and whimsical offerings there.  You could plan on visiting fore the 7th Annual Teddy Bear Tea with your children or your girlfriends.  This would be a grand time.  The next Teddy Bear Tea is December 6, 2014.  There are more Girls Nights Out planned and there is a 2nd Annual Men's Breakfast in September.  Maybe send the man in your life for this time of uplifting and encouraging fellowship.  And the food sounds great, too. 

Thank you so much to the Billy Graham Library for including me in the Bloggers Luncheon and Events this year.  I look forward to seeing you all soon.  Cheers 2014!  Thank you for spreading the gospel and sharing the Love of Christ globally.

Warmly, Carolina Mama

FTC Disclosure:  This post is sponsored by The Billy Graham Library, Charlotte, North Carolina.  All opinions are my own. 

The Cove Billy Graham Training Center An Evening at the Cove

God's timing is perfect.  Even in the midst of great grief and loss at my amazing Mother's home going, we were able celebrate her life, loves and accomplishments.   My husband and I felt an added blessing to be able to reflect and refresh together after all of the services and meet Him here at The Cove at the Billy Graham Training Center in Asheville, North Carolina.

"The Cove is a Christian conference center designed to encourage, refresh and empower believers who want to grow and deepen their faith."

Truly a haven, a heaven on earth.  We were so thankful that God's providence would have it for us to be here this weekend. His timing is always perfect.

The Cove is a great time of refreshment from outside distractions and the daily quick pace of life we all seem to have.   Once we settled in, we gathered by the Fireplace ... can it get any more peaceful.  

The Cove is a perfect place for Clergy and Laymen alike.  In fact, our Church is having our Women's Retreat at the Cove again this year!  It is wonderful to get away, as we did, as a Couple.  Or, for Bible training. They host Marriage Retreats. And Biblical Training.  So there are many reasons to come and be blessed.  Everything is done for you so you can focus your time on Christ and relax. 

                                

One of the Fireplaces is a perfect spot for some quiet time and a refreshing, complimentary Sprite (or coffee, tea, cool water) at each Inn.  

Our room was so warm and comfortable.  We love the good nights sleep on these beds and the spacious bathrooms.  The two sinks are my favorite with one being a separate vanity so everyone can get dressed and ready for the special evening.  And lots of fresh towels!  I love not having to ask for more towels - we had lots of fluffy, soft white towels and toiletries in our room.  We even had a little chocolate waiting on us at bedtime.

When you enter the Training Center, the great living room looks like this at Christmastime. I could just stare. It was so magical.  Love the stone walls and every detail.  Everyone is relaxing by the fireplace. 

We paused for a minute to enjoy a photo opp on the Sleigh out front. This was fun and 

so convivial. 

On to Dinner, it was so fun to sit by the glass wall/ windows and looks at the mountains, the stars really since it was past sunset.  So very breathtaking and romantic.  We sat with a really nice couple. Though we enjoyed our "Date Night" dinner together.  I know, we couldn't help ourselves.

The Dining Room is so beautiful and elegant. 

The Chef at the Cove is phenomenal.  We love the consistency of a tasty, unique and 

healthy meal at the Cove!  And it's in abundance.  We chose the White Fish and Polenta with 

two fresh salads with homemade dressing. Oh my heaven on a plate! 

My husband felt the whole trip was worth it after his first (yes, he had to have two. :) I had one to 

balance us out.) Peanut Butter Chocolate Mousse!  They were truly worth each calorie. 

Then it was on to the most beautiful Michael Card Concert ever. We LOVED it. 

We heard him in concert just before we got engaged so this was really special for us. 

The Cove is such a warm and comfortable and social setting. We got to meet 

Michael Card at the Ruth's Attic Book Store after the Concert.  So fun! 

See, we really did love getting all Christmasy dressed up for our evening out. I am carrying the Tartan Plaid Clutch my Daddy brought me back from Scotland way back.  Memories. And in memory of my Mother as well.

It was an honor to meet Billy Graham's daughter, GiGi Graham as she Hosted us in the Dining Room. Such a real delight to meet her.

GiGi Graham at An Evening at the Cove

Obviously, we could go on and on.  We had to have one more picture by the Fireplace. Everyone has to do this. Right?  It brings back the fabulous memories already .

My husband was right at home by the fireplace and with the old-fashioned 

sled. We took a picture for Colorado sake.  Totally handsome and good-looking, for sure! 

And mine.  #thankful

The Nativity scene about full-life-size was one of my favorites. So very Christmas story.

We love meeting lovely, Christian couples who have been married forever. All of these (including the lady in the middle whose husband was back at their room) were married over 45 years. What a great heritage.  And some great stories, too!  So we only have 31 years left to join their ranks. :)

The beautiful setting as Michael Card played the Grand Piano and sang.  And we were not only refreshed in a new way, we were reminded of Christ in Christmas. 

"I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills from whence cometh my help, My help cometh from the Lord which made heaven and earth."  Psalm 121

You can plan your own event here and follow The Cove on Facebook here, the Cove blog here. 

Warmly,
Carolina Mama

*FTC Disclosure:  This post is sponsored by The Cove. I am honored to partner together and all opinions are all my own. 

The Cove at the Billy Graham Training Center Asheville, North Carolina

Come away for a quiet respite...peace.

Welcome to the lovely 

The Billy Graham Training Center at the Cove, 

Asheville, North Carolina 

The Cove is this kind of place where peace, quiet and respite from the everyday abound.  We visited this Spring and it was an abundance of nature, beauty and grace.

Boulder Mountain Man and I attended an The Cove An Evening at the Cove featuring the amazing and outstanding Shaun Groves of Compassion International.  And check out the his guitar sitting waiting.

"Come for an evening of inspiration as gifted artists tune your heart to the work of God’s Spirit."

We had a very warm Welcome from the Staff and the beauty of the property. The entire property is beautiful and immaculately cared for so it is very peaceful

Here is our room!  It is so wonderfully quiet and clean and neat.  

Great temperatures and an awesome view of the woods.  

You may request a room with a balcony. 

Look at the beds! The beds were very comfortable and had lots of pillows!  :)

Bathroom had a shower and tub with plenty of toiletries and towels, lighting and cute decor.

Refreshment Center on each floor! :) Love this!  You can see my sweet husband having ice water first thing!  We drink lots of water and it was nice to have ice water readily available.  Also, there were soft drinks and coffee, tea and hot cocoa with condiments available all day and night.

This is so handy because this center is right by the fire place and deck and community living room. 

We met some wonderful people here. It is also a great place for quiet time as well. 

Then we went to the dining room and had an exquisite gourmet dinner!  Here is Mrs. Ruth Graham!
She was next to The Reverend Billy Graham. It was nice to see their portraits as we entered
the Training Center.

For posterity, we took one in the Great Room where the Grahams photos hang. :)

The amazing Dining experience. We met some neat folks at our table for dinner.
See, Shaun Groves in the background!

There he is... pensive...ready to perform that evening.

We had frozen yogurt that was perfect AND Cafe au Lait which is abundant and tasty!

My impromptu video while rocking in the rocking chairs on the great deck at the Training Center! 

Boulder Mountain Man and I had a grand time! 

Visit the Cove.org and be refreshed in body, mind and spirit in this true heaven on earth!

Have you visited the Cove? What is your getaway for spiritual respite? 

Warmly, Carolina Mama

*This trip and my work for the Cove is sponsored by the Billy Graham Training Center the Cove. My passion for this ministry and this place is from the Lord.