Robert Schuller dies: Televangelist and megachurch leader passed away at 88

 Wikimedia Commons

Televangelist and Crystal Cathedral megachurch founder Robert Schuller, known worldwide for his weekly "Hour of Power" broadcasts, died in Southern California on Thursday, his grandson said.

The 88-year-old Schuller had been diagnosed with esophageal cancer in 2013. His widely-viewed television broadcasts featured celebrity guests and drew tens of millions of viewers.

"My Grandfather Robert H. Schuller passed this morning into eternal life with Christ," Pastor Bobby Schuller said in a post on Twitter.

Supporters had said on Wednesday that the elder Schuller's condition was swiftly declining, and they called for prayers for him and his family.

"What a man! Thank you Dr Schuller ... So glad we lived in your time!" read a testimonial posted by one mourner on the Facebook page of Shepherd's Grove, which hosts Crystal Cathedral Ministries' services.

News
A brief history of Christmas bans
A brief history of Christmas bans

These days, Christmas is hard to miss and nearly impossible to avoid. But at various times it has been banned in different countries, including Britain. This is the story …

Organisers of Christmas evangelistic campaign thrilled with impact
Organisers of Christmas evangelistic campaign thrilled with impact

Organisers of this year's Shine Your Light Christmas evangelistic outreach have been "overwhelmed" by the response from local churches.

Reach out to others, says Salvation Army, as 1.8 million Brits set to spend Christmas Day alone
Reach out to others, says Salvation Army, as 1.8 million Brits set to spend Christmas Day alone

People are being urged to reach out after polling suggested 1.8 million UK adults will spend Christmas Day alone, even though they do not want to.

Another Christmas in hardship for Gaza church
Another Christmas in hardship for Gaza church

For Christians sheltering in the Holy Family parish in Gaza, there will be few comforts this Christmas.