Utah Senate adopts resolution recognizing Reverend Billy Graham’s life and ministry

The Utah State Senate unanimously adopted a resolution honoring Reverend Billy Graham, acknowledging his international ministry and calling on the state to recognize his lifelong service.

Reading Clerk read the resolution in full, noting Graham’s birth, ministry milestones and national recognitions, including his role counseling presidents and that his body lay in honor in the U.S. Capitol. After the text was read, Senator Jerry Stevenson moved adoption of the resolution. Several senators offered brief tributes recalling Graham’s persuasive outreach and his emphasis on universal love and humanitarian work.

Senator Stevenson moved the motion to adopt the resolution "to recognize the lifelong ministry of Reverend Billy Graham," and President Niederhauser called the vote. The Senate’s voice and recorded entries show broad support; the presiding officer announced the adoption of the resolution and ordered it sent to the House for concurrence and enrollment.

The resolution text cited Graham’s work with the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, his international crusades, and his public roles during national crises. Lawmakers who rose to speak described the evangelist’s influence on families and communities and praised the nonpartisan, humanitarian aspects of his work.

The action closes with the Senate directing that the resolution be transmitted to the House and recorded in the legislative journal. No further policy directives or fiscal consequences were attached to the resolution; it is ceremonial recognition of Reverend Graham’s contributions.

The Senate recessed for communications and then continued with its calendar of bills and motions.