In Theory:

Years ago, Oral Roberts came to my study to introduce himself and make a request that I help him learn the Bible from a Jewish perspective. Since that day, we met many times as he welcomed me graciously to his home. We studied Biblical passages together for hours at a time, taught one another, and ended each meeting hand in hand as we each offered a prayer of thanksgiving for our time together and in the hope that we would meet again soon. I saw first-hand the depth and sincerity of Roberts’ love for the Jewish people and Israel. We were delighted to be in each other’s company. We did not shy away from thorny questions and controversial topics, speaking with candor and openness. We discussed issues of faith, and we confided in one another about matters both professional and personal. I saw that the death of his wife, Evelyn, a preacher’s daughter, took a tremendous toll.

I found Roberts to be a remarkable man, and I will dearly miss my good friend. From the humblest of beginnings, to which he referred often, he rose to become a voice that reached millions and to become a force that transformed much of Christian practice and thought. One of the books he inscribed to me was subtitled, “When you see the invisible, you can do the impossible.” This wonderful lesson of belief in action, what Roberts would call “seed faith,” abides with me as a legacy from a true servant of the Lord.

Rabbi Mark S. Miller

Temple Bat Yahm

Newport Beach

Pastor Roberts and I first became friends back in 1992, when I met him at a car wash in Newport Beach. Since then, we have been in each other’s homes on a number of occasions. When his wife, Evelyn, died, I spent several hours with him sharing memories. He was a man of honor and impacted positively everyone who crossed his path. I will miss him.

Tom Thorkelson

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Certainly Oral Roberts will be remembered as a pioneer of televangelism and for bringing Pentecostals and Charismatics into the mainstream of American religion. His flamboyant public persona and “prosperity gospel” — “seed faith” theology will continue to be controversial as will, unfortunately, his message of healing the whole person in body and mind and spirit.

In our few brief encounters, I found him to be humble and realistic, a gracious and gentle man of God.

(The Very Rev’d Canon) Peter D. Haynes

Saint Michael & All Angels Episcopal Church

Corona del Mar