BATON ROUGE, La. (WAFB) – Baton Rouge televangelist and gospel musician Jimmy Swaggart was inducted into the Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame on Monday, June 30.
The 90-year-old was honored for his contributions to gospel music and ministry, which date back to the 1950s. But the milestone comes at a difficult time for the Swaggart family, just weeks after he suffered a heart attack.
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“It’s bittersweet,” said Megan Kelly, spokesperson for Swaggart Family Ministries. “His life and his legacy have touched so many, and we’re just honored to be a part of this.”
Swaggart gained worldwide recognition in the 1980s, building a ministry that reached millions through television broadcasts, preaching, and music. He sold more than 15 million albums over the course of his career.
According to Kelly, Swaggart learned about his Hall of Fame induction on his birthday in March. The family finds comfort knowing he was able to celebrate one more major accomplishment.
“At the end, we all know there’s an end that’s coming,” Kelly said. “We don’t get to live forever on this earth, but it makes it a little bit easier whenever you know who’s waiting on that other side.”
The family has not shared any further updates on Swaggart’s condition but said they are preparing for his passing and remain grateful for the support and prayers they’ve received.
His son, Donnie Swaggart, is expected to accept the Hall of Fame honor on his behalf during a formal induction ceremony scheduled for September.
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