Stanley joined the staff of First Baptist Church in Atlanta in 1969 and became senior pastor in 1971. In 1972, Stanley launched a halfhour religious television program called The Chapel Hour . In 1977, Stanley founded In Touch Ministries with the mission of leading people worldwide into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and strengthening local churches. In the United States, In Touch is broadcast on approximately 500 radio stations, 300 television stations and several satellite networks including The Inspiration Network (INSP) and Trinity Broadcasting Network