In a stunning and emotional moment from Baton Rouge, Gabriel Swaggart, grandson of the late evangelist Jimmy Swaggart, has finally broken his silence in what he calls a “deeply painful but necessary confession” — one that’s sending shockwaves through the religious broadcasting world and the Swaggart family legacy.
With a trembling voice during a closed-door gathering at Family Worship Center, Gabriel stood before friends, church elders, and long-time supporters — and spoke the words many never thought they’d hear:
“He took what belonged to my grandfather. And I can no longer stay quiet… because silence would be betrayal.”
Though Gabriel never used names, the room understood.
He was referring to his own father — Donnie Swaggart — and what he described as a “hidden pattern” of decisions made in the final years of Jimmy Swaggart’s life, allegedly without his full knowledge or blessing.
“This isn’t about anger,” Gabriel said, holding back tears. “It’s about truth. It’s about legacy. My grandfather built this ministry on grace and repentance… and I refuse to let that be overshadowed by pride and silence.”
Insiders close to the family say tension had been brewing for years, especially following Jimmy’s declining health. Decisions about finances, ministry leadership, and personal influence were made behind closed doors — and now, those doors are slowly being opened.
“I loved my dad. I still do,” Gabriel admitted. “But love doesn’t mean silence when the truth has been buried too long.”
He ended his message not with bitterness, but with a call for unity and healing — for the church, for the family, and for the millions who watched the Swaggarts as a symbol of faith across generations.
“Grandpa preached forgiveness,” Gabriel said. “So I’m starting there. But it starts with honesty.”