To quote “Jim Bakker began the PTL (Praise The Lord) ministry in Fort Mill, South Carolina back in 1974. Affectionately named Heritage USA, he built the ministry from the ground up, and would eventually have a 500 room luxury hotel, its own cable TV show, an amusement park, and an amphitheater. The PTL claimed in 1987 to have 13 million subscribers and assets of $175 million including Heritage USA, a 2,300-acre Christian theme park theme park, which was home to PTL and his cable show, called the Inspirational Network.” In the late 80’s it all fell apart. A scandal involving Jessica Hahn broke about he same time various improprieties in the business dealings of PTL were being investigated. He wound up being sentenced to a 45 year term in prison.
He was released in 1994 after serving 5 years. Wifey Tammy Faye divorced him while he was in prison (and married one of his best friends). Today he also (like his ex-wife) lives in Charlotte, NC and has started a new ministry Covenant House and remarried. He has written two books about his past (although I can’t find them on Amazon). Update Apr/2004: He is now working out of Branson Missouri and is now back on TV with the Jim Bakker show. Thanks to Rob Kerns for the update.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
The Righteous Gemstones: Season 1 (DVD) |
$15.99 |
Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Eyes of Tammy Faye, The (Feature) |
$10.69 |
Buy on Amazon |