John Hagee

John Hagee is a prominent American pastor and televangelist who has been a significant figure in Christianity and politics for several decades, known for his association with Trinity Broadcasting Network and Daystar Television Network. He has been a strong supporter of Israel and has written extensively on Bible prophecy, often referencing Hal Lindsey and Tim LaHaye. Hagee's ministry has been influenced by Oral Roberts and Billy Graham, and he has been a vocal advocate for Christian Zionism, often collaborating with Pat Robertson and Jerry Falwell.

● Early Life and Education

John Hagee was born in Baytown, Texas, to William Bythel Hagee and Vada Mildred Swick Hagee, and grew up in a Christian family, attending Church of God services. He studied at University of North Texas and later graduated from Southwestern Assemblies of God University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biblical Studies and a Master of Arts degree in Theology. Hagee's early ministry was influenced by Kathryn Kuhlman and T.L. Osborn, and he began his pastoral career at a Church of God congregation in Texas, later becoming a pastor at Trinity Church in San Antonio, Texas, where he was ordained by Assemblies of God.

● Ministry and Career

Hagee's ministry gained prominence in the 1980s, as he became a popular televangelist on Trinity Broadcasting Network and Daystar Television Network, often appearing alongside Paul Crouch and Jan Crouch. He founded Cornerstone Church in San Antonio, Texas, which has become one of the largest megachurches in the United States, with a congregation that includes Rick Warren and T.D. Jakes. Hagee has been a strong supporter of Israel and has written extensively on Bible prophecy, often referencing Hal Lindsey and Tim LaHaye, and has been a vocal advocate for Christian Zionism, often collaborating with Pat Robertson and Jerry Falwell. He has also been involved in various Christian organizations, including Christians United for Israel and National Religious Broadcasters, and has worked with Franklin Graham and Samaritan's Purse.

● Controversies and Criticisms

Hagee has been involved in several controversies throughout his career, including criticism from Catholic Church leaders, such as Pope Benedict XVI and Archbishop of New York, Edward Egan, for his comments on Catholicism and the Pope. He has also faced criticism from Muslim leaders, such as Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf and Council on American-Islamic Relations, for his comments on Islam and Muhammad. Additionally, Hagee has been criticized by Jewish leaders, such as Anti-Defamation League and American Jewish Committee, for his comments on Judaism and the Holocaust, and has been accused of promoting anti-Catholic and anti-Muslim views, which has led to criticism from Interfaith Alliance and National Council of Churches. Hagee has also been criticized for his association with Christian Reconstructionism and Dominionism, and has been accused of promoting a theocratic agenda, which has led to criticism from Americans United for Separation of Church and State and American Civil Liberties Union.

● Personal Life

Hagee has been married to Diana Castro since 1976, and they have five children together, including Matthew Hagee and Sandra Hagee Parker. He has been a resident of San Antonio, Texas, and has been involved in various philanthropic efforts, including disaster relief and humanitarian aid, often working with Salvation Army and Red Cross. Hagee has also been a strong supporter of Israel and has led several mission trips to the Holy Land, often visiting Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, and has been a vocal advocate for Christian Zionism, often collaborating with International Christian Embassy Jerusalem and Christian Friends of Israel.

● Publications and Media

Hagee has written several bestselling books, including "The Beginning of the End: The Assassination of Yitzhak Rabin and the Rebirth of Biblical Prophecy", "Jerusalem Countdown: A Warning to the World", and "Four Blood Moons: Something Is About to Change", which have been published by Thomas Nelson and Charisma House. He has also produced several documentaries and television specials, including "The Coming Four Blood Moons", which have been broadcast on Trinity Broadcasting Network and Daystar Television Network, and has been a frequent guest on Christian television programs, such as "The 700 Club", "Praise the Lord", and "TBN's Praise", often appearing alongside Pat Robertson and Benny Hinn. Hagee's ministry has also been featured in various media outlets, including The New York Times, The Washington Post, and Fox News, and has been the subject of several documentaries and books, including "With God on Our Side: George W. Bush and the Rise of the Religious Right", which was written by Esther Kaplan and published by The New Press.