David Gieser Reflects on Lifelong Connection to Christianity Today

David Gieser, a longtime reader of Christianity Today, recently shared reflections on his family’s deep-rooted history with the publication and its founder, Billy Graham. Gieser’s parents were medical missionaries in China, where they worked alongside Dr. Nelson Bell, the father of Ruth Graham. This connection led to a lasting friendship between the Gieser and Graham families, with Gieser recalling his parents’ early observations of Billy Graham’s preaching style during his courtship of Ruth.

Growing up, Gieser attended numerous crusades and served as a platform usher during the 1968 Madison Square Garden event. He credits these experiences and his parents' influence for the profound impact of Graham’s evangelism on his own faith. Reflecting on the magazine’s 70-year history, Gieser expresses appreciation for its continued commitment to the authority of the Bible and the centrality of the gospel, noting that the publication has remained a constant presence throughout his life.