Pastor Billy Joe Daugherty In Critical Condition

By Jeffrey Smith, The News On 6

TULSA, OK -- The founder of one of Green Country's largest churches is fighting for his life. Victory Christian Pastor Billy Joe Daugherty's battle with cancer has taken a turn for the worse. 

The News On 6 reported Friday night that his wife, Sharon, was at his bedside. On Saturday, we found out more about his condition.

Church leaders say Daugherty's health is worsening because of an infection. He's still in critical condition at the hospital. The news is heartbreaking for the 17,000 members of his church.

Billy Joe Daugherty has been in the hospital since he was diagnosed last month with lymphoma. That usually means a cancerous tumor, originating in the lymph nodes in the neck.

Victory Christian members have been praying in shifts 24 hours a day.

"Never before have we come together as a body, as one unity, just to pray," said church member Melody King.

Daugherty's health has worsened in recent days. He's in critical condition, with his family at his bedside.

Church leaders say he's suffering from an infection.

"As you know, when somebody's battling cancer their immune system is weakened, so that made him susceptible to that infection," said Pastor Bruce Edwards. "So he's currently in the hospital receiving treatment, and battling that infection."

Pastor Billy Joe started Victory Christian more than 25 years ago. His charisma and his faith inspired thousands.

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Melody King has been listening to his sermons since she was six years old.

"He's a man of vision. Just to see what he's done, completely debt free with the church and everything," she said.

Victory Christian has 17,000 members, making it one of Green Country's largest churches. Daugherty also founded Victory Christian School and the Victory Bible Institute.

King says news of his worsening health is difficult to take.

"You know, we're human. We love Pastor Billy Joe and his family with all our heart," said church member Melody King.

Pastor Bruce Edwards says the congregation is trying to keep their spirits up, holding on to faith, and the power of prayer.

"Pastor Billy Joe is fighting; he's standing strong. That's our position, that's what our focus is," he said.