FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — D. James Kennedy, who used his Florida-based television ministry to establish himself as a leading voice for religious conservatives, has retired from Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church in Fort Lauderdale.
Kennedy, 76, suffered a cardiac arrest in late December and has not returned to his pulpit of more than 48 years since falling ill. Kennedy started the congregation, which is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in America, in 1959. He became a well-known Christian broadcaster through his presidency of Coral Ridge Ministries, which broadcast his sermons.
“As Dr. Kennedy retires from the scene of active ministry, I praise God for giving the church this man of vision so committed to the [kingdom] of God,” said Frank Wright, president of National Religious Broadcasters. “With his godly wisdom, his courageous heart, and his consistent example, he has inspired millions to love, follow, and serve Jesus Christ.”
Leaders of Coral Ridge Ministries have begun plans to broaden its audience of 3 million to 30 million by 2012, by using Kennedy’s teachings on television, radio, the Internet and in print.
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