Televangelist Jimmy Swaggart hospitalized in critical condition following cardiac arrest.
Louisiana televangelist Jimmy Swaggart remains in critical condition following a cardiac arrest that occurred at his Baton Rouge home. The 90-year-old Swaggart collapsed on Sunday morning, prompting immediate medical intervention by first responders who administered CPR before transporting him to a local hospital.
According to family members, Swaggart was discovered unresponsive around 8 a.m. His son, Donnie Swaggart, provided updates to the public, revealing that his father never regained consciousness. Donnie stated that while the family remains hopeful, they understand the gravity of the situation, emphasizing their belief in divine intervention during this challenging time.
Initial reports indicated that Swaggart had shown no significant signs of physical distress prior to this incident. Family representative Megan Kelly noted that although Swaggart fell on Saturday, he had not exhibited any alarming symptoms leading up to the cardiac event. As of Monday and Tuesday, Swaggart’s condition remained stable, with no significant improvements observed, according to family updates.
A message shared on Swaggart’s official Facebook page reiterated the family’s faith, indicating their willingness to trust in a higher power as they navigate this difficult period. The statement highlighted their commitment to allowing time for what they believe to be a divine plan to unfold.
Jimmy Swaggart rose to prominence in the 1980s through his televised sermons, which espoused a fundamentalist Christian message. His rhetoric often addressed societal issues such as dancing, cinema, and feminism, focusing on the perceived moral decline of contemporary society. However, his career also faced significant turmoil. In 1988, he was involved in a scandal when he was caught with a prostitute in Metairie, Louisiana, leading to a public confession during a televised broadcast. Despite admitting his failings, Swaggart faced further controversy in 1991 when another incident involving a prostitute occurred in Los Angeles.
While these scandals led to a notable decrease in his following, Swaggart continued his ministry, maintaining an expansive campus in Baton Rouge and preaching through Jimmy Swaggart Ministries. His influence persists, reflecting a complex legacy that intertwines fervent faith with personal tribulation. As the situation develops, many await further news regarding Swaggart’s health, hopeful for a positive outcome amid the grave circumstances.
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