President Obama met Sunday in a private prayer session with the Rev. Billy Graham at his North Carolina home before heading to deliver the eulogy at a memorial for coal miners killed in the West Virginia mine accident last month.
White House Deputy Press Secretary Bill Burton told reporters that Obama and Graham met for conversation and prayer, with son Franklin Graham also in attendance. The president “is extraordinarily gratified that he took the time to meet with him,” Burton said.
The visit capped a brief weekend vacation for Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama. The president hit the golf links twice and the first couple played tennis, hiked in the Blue Ridge Mountains and ate dinner with friends.
It was the first time Obama and Graham have met in person, but they spoke last fall when the president phoned Graham to wish him a happy 91st birthday. The White House faith director Josh DuBois accompanied the president. Reporters were not allowed into the mountain-top log cabin.
White House aides told reporters that Obama attempted to meet with Graham during a break from debate preparations in fall 2008 but the timing didn’t work out.
“Reverend Graham has obviously been an important spiritual leader for past presidents and for the American people for decades,” Burton told reporters covering Obama’s trip. “He’s a real treasure for our country. The president appreciates the opportunity to visit him at his home.”
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