Billy Graham visited Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, twice during his ministry. His first trip was in 1960, when he spoke at the Baptist World Conference. He returned in 1974 to preach during a five-day Crusade in the city that hosted the 2016 Olympics. Watch exclusive video of Billy Graham in Brazil.
Billy Graham received a warm welcome when he arrived in Rio for the 1974 Crusade.
Chatting with the media and residents of the city.
During the week, Billy Graham attended a luncheon hosted by local officials.
Billy Graham held 17 Crusades in South America, with his final two happening in Brazil (Rio in 1974 and Sao Paulo in 1979).
Billy Graham speaking through his interpreter Dr. Walter Kaschel during his five-day Crusade in Rio.
A fun photo showing George Beverly Shea's lighter side.
George Beverly Shea sang throughout the Crusade.
People of all ages in Brazil attended the Crusade, which drew more than half a million people over the course of five days.
The Crusade was televised live, which marked a first for Brazil. Stations carrying the network program served 1,500 cities.
"God is a God of love, a God of mercy," Billy Graham said. "He has the hairs of your head numbered. ... He wants to come into your life and give you new hope."
The final night of the Crusade drew an estimated 225,000 people, which set a record then for Maracana Stadium, a venue that hosted soccer games. At the time of the event in 1974, this was the largest crowd to attend an evangelistic service in the western hemisphere. A panoramic view of the stadium during that final night.
