Birth and Early Formation (1930)

Marion Gordon “Pat” Robertson was born on this day, March 22, 1930, in Lexington, Virginia, a historic Shenandoah Valley town shaped by small-community life, civic duty, and enduring traditions. He grew up with an awareness that public leadership carries moral weight, and that faith is not meant to be hidden. Those early influences, along with later military service, helped form a steady courage—an ordinary kind of heroism expressed in discipline, responsibility, and readiness to answer hard questions with conviction.

After the armed forces, Robertson pursued theological training, preparing not merely for a career but for a calling. His story reflects a pattern seen in many Christian leaders: God uses seasons of preparation to fit a person for a work that will require both spiritual confidence and practical perseverance.

A Vision for New Media (1960)

In 1960 he founded the Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN), stepping forward with the belief that the gospel should not retreat from emerging platforms. This venture demanded faith under pressure—funding needs, technical challenges, and public criticism—yet the aim remained clear: to communicate Christ in homes where a church door might never open.

The later launch of programs such as The 700 Club made Christian testimony, Scripture, and prayer accessible to millions. Broadcasting became a modern “pulpit,” calling people to hear and respond. “How then can they call on the One in whom they have not believed? And how can they believe in the One of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone to preach?” (Romans 10:14).

Public Witness, Education, and Relief

Robertson’s influence extended beyond television into education and compassion ministries, including Operation Blessing, which provided practical help during disasters and ongoing human need. This combination of proclamation and service modeled a faith that speaks and acts—urging prayer, repentance, trust in God’s Word, and steady obedience in everyday life.

His message often pressed believers to be courageous without becoming harsh, and confident in Scripture without becoming careless in love. “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9).