Sonlife Radio Network

In 1969, Brother Swaggart stepped into the unfamiliar world of radio. He had no training or real experience. All he had was a deep conviction that God was leading him to reach people beyond the walls of a church. With limited knowledge and no formal background in broadcasting, he launched The Campmeeting Hour on just three stations, holding on to his faith and his desire to see souls saved. For months, there was hardly a response, no mail, no offerings, just silence, and as bills began piling up and doubts crept in, he found himself on the edge of quitting, wondering if he had misunderstood the call altogether. However, God had other plans.

Three station managers, without knowing what the others were doing, told their listeners what was happening and asked them to help. Sister Frances, full of faith, told Brother Swaggart they would sell their furniture if that’s what it took to stay on the air. And then, it happened. One morning, the doorbell rang, and the postman stood there with a sack full of 900 letters. Inside were prayers, support, and just enough to keep going.

The program spread as lives were touched, and people who had never known God were giving their hearts to Him. A mafia hitman in Ohio walked away from crime and into the grace of God. Churches began to overflow. People started writing letters just to say how much the message meant to them. And when the Holy Spirit told Brother Swaggart to teach on the baptism with the Spirit, it lit a fire across denominational lines that couldn’t be put out.

What started as three radio slots and a whole lot of faith became a daily voice of hope across hundreds of stations. Even in remote villages in Africa, the sound of Spirit-filled music and gospel preaching was heard.

Today, SonLife Radio is still going strong. Not just because of good planning, but because of obedience, tears, sacrifice, and the hand of God. It’s not just radio. It’s a legacy that lives on, as this station carries on the mission and vision that God placed in Brother Swaggart’s heart all those years ago.

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.”

2 Timothy 4:7-8

Today, our hearts are heavy as we share that Brother Swaggart has finished his earthly race and entered into the presence of His Savior, Jesus Christ. Today was the day he has sung about for decades. He met his beloved Savior and entered the portals of glory. At the same time, we rejoice knowing that we will see him again one day.

For over seven decades, Brother Swaggart poured out his life preaching the gospel, singing songs of the faith, and pointing millions to the saving power of Jesus Christ and the Baptism of the Holy Spirit. His voice echoed through nations, his music softened hearts, and his message never changed: Jesus Christ and Him crucified.

He was not just a preacher—he was a worshiper, a warrior, and a witness to the grace and mercy of God. He was a man whose faith was steadfast and always entered whatever door the Lord opened. And the Lord honored that faith.

Please continue to lift up Sister Frances, Donnie, Debbie, Gabriel, Jill, Jennifer, Clif, Matt, Joanna, Sam, Ryder, Abby, Lola, Harper, Navy, Harrison, Caroline and Mackenzie in your prayers.

The family would like to thank the staff, doctors and nurses at Baton Rouge General Medical Center for their incredible support and care given during this time.

For media inquiries, please contact
Megan Kelly
[email protected]