Brussels (Eurotoday) – Around 13,000 people attended the Festival of Hope at Brussels’ ING Arena, where Franklin Graham spoke, and evangelist artists performed, engaging youth with music, worship, and faith-focused messages.
As Niewsblad News reported, around 13,000 people attended a speech by American pastor Franklin Graham at the ING Arena in Brussels on Saturday evening, Sep 27, 2025. The event was organised by a Belgian evangelical church.
The church is known for its conservative beliefs and strict, literal reading of the Bible. Graham began his speech by speaking about the late activist Charlie Kirk. He said,
“Charlie Kirk is not dead. He is with Jesus.”
What impact did Franklin Graham have at Brussels’ Festival of Hope?
At the Festival of Hope, evangelist artists took to the stage to perform for a large crowd. Young people responded with excitement, singing along to songs that proclaimed their faith. Many raised their hands and closed their eyes as they joined in the worship.
Festival-goers wore clothing that reflected their beliefs. Some wore T-shirts with messages such as “Jesus is calling” and “God is in control.” Others wore soccer jerseys with the words “Created by God’s hand.”
“We’ve asked the evangelists to also bring non-believers,”
says organiser Rosario.
“We hope they will accept Jesus’ invitation today and join our church.”
Franklin Graham is the son of the famous preacher Billy Graham. He is a supporter of former U.S. President Donald Trump. He has led prayers at both of Trump’s inauguration ceremonies. Graham often combines religious teachings with political and social commentary.
He has been criticised for his views on abortion, same-sex marriage, transgender rights, and Islam. These positions have made him a controversial figure. At the same time, they have earned him a large following among conservative Christians worldwide.
“There are churches that deliberately didn’t show up today because they disagree with his statements. But the truth is that most of us do agree with them,”
says organiser Rosario.
The event was organised by more than 535 churches across the country. It commemorated the 50th anniversary of Billy Graham’s evangelistic campaign in Brussels in 1975. The event was part of a global initiative by the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association to share the Gospel. Since 1989, Franklin Graham has conducted over 345 outreach events in more than 55 countries.
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