Oral Roberts' Pastor Among Many In Attendance

By Tara Vreeland, The News On 6

Oral Roberts said he heard the voice of God when he was 17 which is when he started his ministry.

He founded Oral Roberts University in 1963 and continued to spread Christianity through 300 crusades around the world reaching millions of people.

A mix of people filled the Mabee center this afternoon. Ordinary people stood beside leaders in the evangelical world, all to honor Oral Roberts.

In the days leading up to Christmas, a faithful few quietly gathered at the Mabee Center in memory of the man who founded the university on which it stands.

"I just wanted to come here to honor the man that has brought so much to our community and to the whole world," said Dave Anderson, ORU Graduate.

"Yes I would say his life affected me greatly. I've been blessed with prosperity just blessed in my spirit because of him," said Marcia Crosse.

Those who came to the memorial service say Roberts lived a long life but they find comfort that Roberts' is with his wife Evelyn, in heaven.

"I know it's sad for family and friends but I'm really excited for him. I know where he is," Crosse said.

Phil Munsey was Roberts' Pastor at Life Church in Irvine, California. He said they came here to Tulsa together in September for the inauguration of ORU's new president.

Munsey says he told Roberts he was in awe of his accomplishments but he said Roberts had a humble response.

"He said the weight of every man's burden weighs the same on everyone's shoulder. Whether you are raising up children or raising up a university, you just do what God has told you. It's no big deal," Munsey said.

The Pastor said he respectfully disagrees.

"I think he did a big deal. History and eternity will show that. He really made a huge impact on Christianity," Munsey said.

Munsey says so many things came together in 2009, calling this one of Roberts' greatest years.

"All of his dreams to see the university to continue. To see his son's legacy really go into the focus it needs to. It's really been the best year of his life," Munsey said.

Pastor Munsey says Oral Roberts was gracious and peaceful when he left Tulsa and said the next time he came back, it would be like this.