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Mel Gibson Gives Billy Graham Special Screening of "Passion"

Billy Graham watched a special showing of Mel Gibson's "The Passion of Christ" and spoke with the Hollywood star about the decade-long spiritual journey that led to the film, according to a news release from the Billy Graham Evangelistic...
Jun 23, 2025
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Mel Gibson Gives Billy Graham Special Screening of "Passion"

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Billy Graham watched a special showing of Mel Gibson's "The Passion of Christ" and spoke with the Hollywood star about the decade-long spiritual journey that led to the film, according to a news release from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association.

"I have often wondered what it must have been like to be a bystander during those last hours before Jesus' death," Graham said in the late-November release. "After watching 'The Passion of Christ,' I feel as if I have actually been there.

"I was moved to tears. I doubt if there has ever been a more graphic and moving presentation of Jesus' death and resurrection, which Christians believe are the most important events in human history," he said.

Gibson traveled to Graham's home in Charlotte, N.C., both before and after Graham watched the film. During both visits, Graham became convinced of Gibson's deep sincerity and his desire that the movie be used to bring a new emphasis on the events of 2,000 years ago and their relevance today, the news release said.

Graham addressed some criticisms that Gibson's film encourages anti-Semitism.

"The film is faithful to the Bible's teaching that we are all responsible for Jesus' death, because we have all sinned," Graham said. "It is our sins that caused His death, not any particular group."

The release said Graham also was impressed by the deep sincerity and commitment of Jim Caviezel, who plays Jesus in the film, and his wife, Kerri. The two joined Gibson in speaking with Graham.

"The Passion of Christ" is set to open in theaters nationwide Feb. 25, which is Ash Wednesday and the beginning of the time when various branches of Christianity traditionally reflect on Jesus' sacrifice. Graham said he believes the timing will add to the spiritual impact the film may have on mainstream audiences.

"No one who views this film's compelling imagery will ever be the same," Graham said.

Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/John Phillips/Stringer
© 2003 Southern Baptist Convention, Baptist Press.  All rights reserved.  Used with permission.

More about Mel Gibson


Mel Gibson Headshot for Celebrity BioMel Gibson is a renowned actor and director whose faith has profoundly shaped his work, most notably in The Passion of the Christ, a film that captivated Christ-followers with its raw portrayal of Jesus' sacrifice. His new project, The Resurrection of the Christ, is presently in development with Lionsgate and is generating excitement throughout the Christian community. Gibson has affirmed his conviction that the gospels are historical truths, making this sequel not only cinematic but deeply rooted in his devotion to the Bible. Through both his earlier and upcoming faith-based films, Gibson continues his mission to bring powerful, gospel-centered stories to a global audience.

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Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/Amanda Edwards/Contributor


Originally published December 07, 2003.

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