Remembering David Wilkerson

In the wake of David Wilkerson’s April 27 death, bloggers, reporters, friends, family and ministry partners are joining in the outpouring of recollections and reflections on his impact on the church during his 50-plus years of ministry. The following is a collection of media items that paint a picture of Wilkerson’s remarkable life:

• Check out Charisma magazine’s tribute to Wilkerson, with a photo gallery, videos and written remembrances.
• David Wilkerson’s younger brother, Don, offers personal memories of sharing life and ministry with his brother.
• Hear in his own words Wllkerson’s moving challenge to a lukewarm American church in “A Call to Anguish.”
• In the days following his death, many have been encouraged by Wilkerson’s final blog post.
• Read a moving interview with Nicky Cruz, the former gang member who was born again early in Wilkerson’s ministry in New York.
• Hear in his own words llkerson’s moving challenge to a lukewarm American church in “A Call to Anguish.”
• Pat Boone recalls what it was like playing David Wilkerson in The Cross and the Switchblade.
• CBN News features a selection of video clips of Wilkerson and Cruz, as well as a prophetic message Wilkerson gave in 1993.
• This USA Today piece highlights the dramatic influence of Wilkerson on the church and culture, despite his absence on “top influencers” lists.
• Sermon Index features more than 500 sermons from Wilkerson.
• This revealing 1989 article in People magazine discusses Wilkerson’s commitment to simplicity and frugality in his personal and ministry life.
• Dan Wooding has written an interesting piece with some personal reflections and little-known facts about Wilkerson’s life.

He was the subject of a Hollywood film on his life, he planted a megachurch in the heart of New York City and he founded a drug addiction recovery ministry that was applauded by President George W. Bush as one of the most effective faith-based initiatives in America. But Wilkerson will be most remembered for his love for the lost and his straight talk to compromising churches.