The Norwich hospital chaplain and Anglican priest, Rev Darren Thornton, had a life-changing experience 40 years ago when American evangelist Dr. Billy Graham spoke at Carrow Road stadium during the Mission England crusades. Thornton recalls feeling a burning sensation in his heart and knowing he had to walk onto the pitch to invite Jesus into his life. This moment marked the start of his committed faith journey, leading him to join the Church Army and later become ordained as a Deacon and Priest in the Church of England. Thornton remains a season ticket holder at Norwich City Football Club, honoring the spot where he made his commitment to Jesus at every home game. The Billy Graham mission not only changed Thornton’s life but also gave new meaning to the hymns and psalms he sang as a church chorister.
The renowned American evangelist Dr. Billy Graham visited Carrow Road in Norwich exactly 40 years ago, drawing an estimated 63,000 people to hear him proclaim the Christian gospel. Over a period of three months, Graham traveled to six football stadiums across the country as part of the 1984 Mission England crusade, reaching over one million individuals. In Norwich alone, more than 3,700 people responded to Graham’s message, experiencing life-changing moments similar to the one Thornton had on the pitch at Carrow Road. The mission was made possible by the effort of 850 churches, raising funds and providing volunteers, counsellors, choir members, and other support staff.
The Mission England events in Norwich had a profound impact on the community, with individuals from different backgrounds coming together to hear Billy Graham’s message of faith and hope. The crusades involved not only spiritual transformation but also demonstrated the power of unity among churches and volunteers working together to make the events successful. The memories of Graham’s visit to Carrow Road continue to be cherished by those who were touched by his words and inspired to deepen their own faith journeys. Share your personal stories from the Mission England events in Norwich by emailing [email protected] with details and a picture.
Today, Canon Darren Thornton serves as the Chaplain at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, celebrating 30 years of licensed ministry within the Diocese of Norwich. His commitment to his faith and the impact of Billy Graham’s visit to Carrow Road remain a significant part of his journey as a priest and spiritual leader. The legacy of the Mission England crusades lives on through the stories of individuals like Thornton, who found a renewed sense of purpose and devotion to God through that momentous event at the stadium. Thornton’s life serves as a testament to the enduring impact of evangelistic missions and the power of personal encounters with Jesus.
