Evangelist Roberts Has Heart Surgery

Evangelist Oral Roberts is recovering from heart surgery at Hoag Hospital in Newport Beach, say hospital officials and associates of the legendary evangelist.

The 81-year-old Roberts, a Newport Beach resident for 43 years, was in fair and stable condition following an angioplasty performed after he suffered a mild heart attack two weeks ago, said George Fisher, a vice president at Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Okla.

“The procedure was successful, and he’s doing very well,” said Fisher. “We appreciate the community’s prayers.”

Roberts has suffered from heart problems for years, according to Tom Thorkelson, a friend of Roberts and vice president of the Newport-Mesa Irvine Interfaith Council.

In fact, Roberts was rushed to Hoag in 1992 with chest pains after a live broadcast of a show produced by Trinity Broadcasting Network. He had an angioplasty to clear a blocked artery.

Previously, he underwent two successful surgeries in 1991 to widen his carotid arteries.

“This is just a minor setback for him,” said Fisher. “He’s been going strong, traveling and ministering across the country.”

The university he founded--beset by financial problems in the 1980s--also is going strong, Fisher said. The 500-acre campus is still valued at $500 million, and enrollment is up this year to 5,181 students.

The complex includes a 11,500-seat arena and schools of theology, business, education and nursing.

Roberts made more than $85 million in 1980. His income slid to $55 million in 1986, and he incurred millions in debt.

After years of financial trouble, he told followers in 1987 that unless he could raise almost $8 million in donations, God would take his life.

He received millions of dollars in donations but still had to sell a university-affiliated hospital in 1989 when a fund-raising attempt fell short.

Roberts retired in 1993, and his son, Richard, took over his father’s position as president of the university, although the elder Roberts remains as chancellor and continues his speaking engagements.

“As an individual, Oral is humble, sincere and dedicated,” said Thorkelson. “He’s a true Christian.”