There are a few times in life that we can look back on moments that are forever etched in our hearts – and today was one of those days for Pastor Jim Bakker. As he brought the message this morning about “Legacy”, he looked out over the audience and marveled at the many friends and loved ones that came to share this special day with him.

There was Russell James – the PTL bad boy. Yes, Russell caused his Mother more than a little concern all those years ago when he was a teenager operating a camera at PTL. She brought that concern to Pastor Jim and well… Russell didn’t stand a chance with all that prayer going on! Along with operating camera, Russell was the clown on Pastor Jim’s “Come on Over” children’s program in the early years. Today, Russell is the Director of the Upper Room at Heritage USA which he has restored and operates as it was intended to operate when Pastor Jim built it so long ago.

And there was Dale Hill – pioneer of Christian television right alongside Pastor Jim. Dale started as a camera operator, but became his director early at CBN and remained there right up until the time Pastor Jim went to prison. Today, Dale owns and operates “The Broadcast Group” which has recently acquired Heritage USA’s Barn Auditorium and Studio and plans to reopen it.

Bob and Jeanne Johnson, Christian music icons, sang with a timeless anointing of days gone by like they did at PTL – and they look much the same too! Shirley Fullbright, Pastor Jim’s secretary for 28 years was there to pay him tribute as well. Vi Azedio, who worked for Pastor Jim as head of the counseling department at PTL was there to honor this memorable occasion.

Donna Puckett, Pastor Jim’s sister and Marlee Bakker, his niece, were among other family members. Dr. Don and Susan Verhulst, Dr. Paul and Judy Hegstrom, Bishop Ronnie Webb and many, many others brought joy and gladness to Pastor Jim’s heart by being at this special event.

And then there is Lee Townsley, Jeremy Lefebre, Ted Squires and many, many others – all heroes in their own right.

Pastor Jim’s message “Legacy”, emphasized the importance of souls won for the Kingdom of God. We can’t help but rejoice that what was meant for evil in Pastor Jim’s trials of life – have turned out for good and continue to this day to bear fruit in the Kingdom!

We can’t wait for tomorrow’s surprises!