[CLOCK TICKING] ANNOUNCER: This Last Minute of 60 Minutes is sponsored by UnitedHealthcare, providing coverage you can depend on for every stage of life.
Evangelist Franklin Graham, who has preached in all 50 states and led disaster relief efforts in more than 100 countries, was asked which value he believes most shaped the nation. His answer: faith in God.
He recalled the pilgrims, who came seeking freedom to practice their beliefs, and said that people of faith have served as the bedrock and driving force of the country. In earlier times, he pointed out, communities turned to churches rather than government agencies after disasters; congregations opened their doors, provided food, shelter and clothing, and led relief efforts. He also credited people of faith with founding institutions of health care and higher education, noting that colleges such as Harvard, Yale and Princeton began as places to train ministers.
From remote Alaskan villages to the Florida Keys, Graham said, houses of worship and people of faith still make a difference. As a follower of Jesus Christ, he added, he wants everyone to know that God loves them and cares for them. For him, faith is the single most important defining value for the nation and for every life.
I’m Bill Whitaker. We’ll be back next week with another edition of 60 Minutes. Happy Easter and a joyous Passover.
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