This week in Christian history: Wheaton College holds first classes; Oral Roberts dies

By Michael Gryboski, Mainline Church Editor Sunday, December 12, 2021

Oral Roberts dies – Dec. 15, 2009

Oral Roberts preaches at Oral Roberts University. | (Photo: Oral Roberts Ministries / File)

This week marks the anniversary of when Oral Roberts, the notable Charismatic televangelist and founder of Oral Roberts University in Oklahoma, died at age 91 due to complications from pneumonia.

Roberts preached at hundreds of evangelical events and authored more than 100 books. He claimed to have had the spiritual gift of healing.

Roberts had his share of controversies, such as his emphasis on faith healing as a medical practice and allegations that he was an advocate for the prosperity gospel.

“Oral Roberts was a man of God, and a great friend in ministry,” said the late famed evangelist Billy Graham in a statement released at the time of Roberts’ death.

“I look forward to the day that I will see Oral and Evelyn Roberts again in heaven – our eternal home.”