Ailing Billy Graham Is Able to Kick Off Revival

The Rev. Billy Graham, hobbled by age and illness, opened what may be his final American revival at Flushing-Meadows Corona Park in Queens. Graham, 86, was helped onto the stage by his son and successor, the Rev. Franklin Graham, who then sat nearby, ready to step in if his father was unable to finish.

But Graham spoke for about 30 minutes, his baritone diminished but clear, mixing his message of salvation in Jesus with anecdotes and humor. Noting the struggles of the New York Yankees and Mets, he asked the crowd to pray for both teams.