Jimmy Swaggart, once one of the most watched and influential televangelists in the United States, has remained active in ministry despite numerous controversies over the decades. Known for his emotional preaching style, music ministry, and television broadcasts, Swaggart built a global following through his faith-based programming. But what is Jimmy Swaggart doing now?
In his later years, Swaggart continues to preach, lead worship, and broadcast his message worldwide. This article explores his current work, ministry operations, lifestyle, and enduring presence in the world of evangelical media.
Early Rise as a Pentecostal Preacher
Born in 1935 in Ferriday, Louisiana, Jimmy Swaggart began preaching in the 1950s. His powerful sermons and musical talent helped him grow a strong following among Pentecostal believers. He rose to national prominence during the 1970s and 1980s through his television ministry, which reached millions of households weekly.
At the peak of his career, Swaggart’s television programs were broadcast across the United States and over 100 countries. He became a dominant figure in the Pentecostal movement and the broader evangelical world, known for his fiery sermons, piano performances, and gospel singing.
Scandal and Public Fall from Grace
In the late 1980s, Jimmy Swaggart’s career faced a major setback when a prostitution scandal became public. His tearful televised confession in 1988 became one of the most infamous moments in televangelist history. He was defrocked by the Assemblies of God, and his ministry faced widespread criticism.
Despite another similar incident in 1991, Swaggart continued preaching, though with a significantly reduced audience. Many believed his ministry would not recover from the scandals, but Swaggart persisted in rebuilding his platform through his own organization.
Rebuilding His Ministry
After parting ways with the Assemblies of God, Jimmy Swaggart focused on operating as an independent evangelist. He maintained control of Jimmy Swaggart Ministries (JSM), based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The organization launched its own television network, SonLife Broadcasting Network (SBN), which marked a major step in reviving his outreach efforts.
SBN now broadcasts Swaggart’s sermons, musical programs, Bible teaching, and talk shows globally via satellite, cable, and digital platforms. The network has expanded to include live church services, guest preachers, and roundtable discussions with ministry leaders.
What is Jimmy Swaggart Doing Now?
As of the latest updates, Jimmy Swaggart continues to serve as the senior pastor of Family Worship Center, the church attached to his ministry headquarters. He preaches regularly during Sunday services and participates in weekday broadcasts on SonLife Broadcasting Network.
Though now in his late 80s, Swaggart remains actively involved in his ministry’s operations. He frequently plays piano and sings during services, reflecting his lifelong passion for gospel music. His preaching style has remained largely unchanged—emotional, scripture-based, and focused on salvation through Jesus Christ.
Swaggart also appears on programs such as The Message of the Cross and Frances & Friends, where he discusses doctrine and current events from a conservative, Pentecostal perspective.
Family and Leadership Roles
Jimmy Swaggart’s ministry today is very much a family-run operation. His son, Donnie Swaggart, is a prominent preacher in the organization and often shares the pulpit with his father. Donnie’s children are also involved, continuing the Swaggart family legacy in ministry.
His wife, Frances Swaggart, plays a central role in administrative and media operations. She co-hosts programs on SBN and helps manage the church’s outreach initiatives. Together, the family represents a united front in preserving the mission and continuity of the organization.
Music Ministry and Gospel Heritage
Music remains a cornerstone of Jimmy Swaggart’s ministry. His gospel albums, hymns, and piano solos continue to be part of church services and SBN broadcasts. Swaggart has recorded over 50 gospel albums and is known for renditions of classics such as Jesus Use Me, There Is a River, and I’ll Never Be Lonely Again.
He often performs live during worship segments and continues to produce new recordings through the ministry’s media division. His influence on gospel music within Pentecostal circles remains strong.
Digital Presence and Global Reach
In recent years, Jimmy Swaggart Ministries has modernized its approach to global evangelism. Through SonLife Broadcasting Network, the ministry now streams sermons, Bible studies, and Christian music online.
The SBN app, official website, and YouTube channel allow followers to access live services and archived programs. This shift to digital platforms has enabled JSM to maintain and even grow its audience, particularly among older viewers and Pentecostal Christians seeking traditional preaching.
International viewers from Latin America, Africa, and parts of Europe remain a significant part of SBN’s global audience base.
Doctrinal Focus and Theological Position
Jimmy Swaggart continues to preach a Pentecostal doctrine rooted in salvation, sanctification, and baptism in the Holy Spirit. He emphasizes the Cross of Christ as the central message of Christianity, referring to it as the solution to sin, addiction, and moral failure.
Swaggart’s theology rejects modern progressive Christianity and remains firmly traditional. His messages often critique secular culture, spiritual compromise, and liberal theology, resonating with conservative evangelicals.
This doctrinal consistency has helped him retain a loyal, if smaller, following over the years.
Controversies and Criticism
Despite his continued activity, Jimmy Swaggart remains a controversial figure. Critics cite his past scandals, lack of external accountability, and strong doctrinal claims as reasons to question his authority. Some theological experts disagree with his interpretation of scripture and his emphasis on exclusivity in salvation teaching.
Financial transparency has also been a recurring concern, as JSM is a private organization with limited public reporting. However, his core audience tends to view these concerns as attacks on a man who has repented and committed his life to Christ’s work.
Lifestyle and Public Appearances
Jimmy Swaggart lives near the Family Worship Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and rarely makes public appearances outside his ministry network. His lifestyle is centered around his church and media operations, and he no longer travels for revival meetings or crusades as he once did.
His schedule primarily includes Sunday services, weekday broadcasts, and music rehearsals. He occasionally participates in anniversary events or holiday-themed services at the church but avoids public interviews or press events.
The Legacy of Jimmy Swaggart
Jimmy Swaggart’s legacy is a mix of redemption, influence, and controversy. While his past moral failures tarnished his public image, his determination to rebuild his ministry has secured his place in evangelical history.
He remains a key figure in the Pentecostal movement, particularly among those who value old-style preaching and worship. His teachings, songs, and sermons have touched millions globally, and his ministry continues to impact lives despite the many challenges he has faced.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Jimmy Swaggart still preaching?
Yes, Jimmy Swaggart still preaches regularly at Family Worship Center in Baton Rouge and on SonLife Broadcasting Network programs.
What is SonLife Broadcasting Network?
SonLife Broadcasting Network (SBN) is the television and digital media arm of Jimmy Swaggart Ministries. It broadcasts sermons, music, and Bible teaching globally.
How old is Jimmy Swaggart now?
Jimmy Swaggart was born in 1935. As of now, he is in his late 80s and remains active in his ministry.
Is Donnie Swaggart taking over the ministry?
Donnie Swaggart, Jimmy’s son, plays a leading role in preaching and leadership at JSM. While Jimmy remains active, Donnie is increasingly seen as his successor.
Where does Jimmy Swaggart live today?
Jimmy Swaggart resides in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, close to the headquarters of his ministry and Family Worship Center.