About Dr. Landon Brady saunders
Dr. Landon Brady Saunders (1937-2023) was a beloved speaker, visionary communicator, and non-profit leader whose impact reached far beyond traditional religious boundaries. Born on July 26, 1937, in Charleston, West Virginia, Landon dedicated his life to spreading a message of love, joy, and hope to millions worldwide.
Education and Early Ministry
Landon Saunders earned degrees from Freed-Hardeman University and Harding University (1959), and attended Harding School of Theology (1961-63). His early career saw him serve as a minister for Churches of Christ in Tennessee, Arkansas, and Texas, including the Minter Lane Church of Christ in Abilene.
Heartbeat Ministry
In 1971, Saunders began serving as president of Heartbeat Inc., hosting the popular “Heartbeat” short-form radio program. This initiative, born from an invitation to create “a daily radio program for those outside religious walls,” reached millions through NBC, CBS, and Armed Forces radio networks. The ministry’s headquarters moved from Abilene to Houston, and finally to New York City, reflecting its growing influence.
Legacy and Impact
Dr. Saunders was a frequent speaker at churches and universities nationwide, including ten appearances at Abilene Christian University’s annual Summit (formerly Bible Lectureship). His message consistently emphasized love, justice, and mercy over judgment, inspiring countless individuals to live out their faith in meaningful ways.
Honors and Recognition
Harding University Distinguished Alumni Award (1981)
Abilene Christian University Excellence in Mass Media Ministry award (1977)
Honorary doctorate from Abilene Christian University (2023)
Board member of the Yale Center for Faith and Culture
Fellow of the Caris Life Sciences Foundation
The Landon Saunders Center for Joy and Human Flourishing
In 2023, Abilene Christian University announced a campaign to establish the Landon Saunders Center for Joy and Human Flourishing. This academic center is dedicated to preserving Landon’s legacy and forwarding his vision to develop generations who will learn how best to live as human beings.
“I have made joy the default setting of my heart. No matter what happens, no matter my failure, no matter my loss, no matter my sadness, no matter the disease that now weakens my body, my heart returns to joy.” – Dr. Landon Saunders
Dr. Landon Brady Saunders passed away on November 14, 2023, at the age of 86, in Norwich, Vermont. His life’s work continues to inspire and guide people towards a deeper understanding of love, joy, and human flourishing.
