Josh McDowell

Josh McDowell started as an agnostic who thought Christianity was worthless. But when challenged to investigate Christianity’s claims, he found compelling evidence and converted to faith in Jesus Christ. This transformation led him to abandon his law school plans and instead dedicate his life to sharing the gospel. He studied at Wheaton College and Talbot Theological Seminary, and joined Campus Crusade for Christ in 1963, later founding the Josh McDowell Ministry to reach young people worldwide. Josh McDowell Ministry is a Cru sub ministry today.

Josh’s humanitarian work began in 1991 with the founding of Operation Carelift, which has provided over $46 million in aid to the former Soviet Union, helping nearly a million children. He has been honored by the Russian Academy of Medicine and the Russian Club of Scientists for his contributions. In the U.S., Josh has developed impactful campaigns for youth and authored 157 books in 128 languages, including More Than a Carpenter and other books by Josh McDowell that continue to equip believers and challenge skeptics alike. Despite his many accolades, he treasures his family life with his wife Dottie, their four children, and 11 grandchildren.