Suzanne Hinn is an American Christian minister, evangelist, and prayer leader best known for her decades-long presence in global charismatic movements and her marriage to televangelist Benny Hinn. Born Suzanne Harthern on February 9, 1959, she grew up within a deeply rooted pastoral family that shaped her lifelong engagement with church leadership, intercessory prayer, and large-scale public ministry. While public discussions often tether her name to her high-profile marriage and subsequent separations, her individual trajectory spans independent founding efforts, distinct theological teaching, and a prominent role within Pentecostal circles.
Understanding her footprint requires looking past tabloid headlines to examine her early upbringing, her founding of Purifying Fire International Ministry, and her enduring influence on modern charismatic worship.
Early Life and Ministry Roots
Suzanne Hinn grew up surrounded by pastoral work. Her father, Roy Harthern, served as a prominent minister, notably leading the Calvary Assembly of God in Orlando, Florida, alongside her mother, Pauline Harthern. Growing up in an active church environment exposed her to the inner workings of large congregations and international missionary efforts from a young age.
Her family's British roots and extensive network within Pentecostal denominations meant that faith was not merely a Sunday routine, but a full-time family vocation. During her teenage years, she pursued her own calling to preach and speak publicly, attending institutions such as Evangel College in Springfield, Missouri, and Southeastern Bible College in Lakeland, Florida. Friends and peers during her college years often noted her intense focus on personal prayer and intercession, traits that later defined her individual ministry approach.
Through her father's pastoral connections in Orlando, she crossed paths with a young traveling evangelist named Benny Hinn. The two married on August 4, 1979, a milestone that aligned her personal life with the rapid expansion of international healing crusades and televised Christian broadcasting.
Marriage, Separation, and Reconciliation
For over three decades, Suzanne and Benny Hinn were joint figures in global Christian media, appearing regularly on networks via programs like This Is Your Day and helping build large church communities such as the Orlando Christian Center. Together, they raised four children: Jessica, Natasha, Hannah, and Josh.
Their marriage experienced significant public trials. In February 2010, Suzanne filed for divorce in the Orange County Superior Court, citing irreconcilable differences. The separation prompted widespread media coverage within both religious and secular circles. Following the separation, Suzanne focused on personal renewal and independent ministry work.
In a surprising turn for their followers, the couple reconciled and remarried in March 2013 during a large ceremony at the Holy Land Experience theme park in Orlando, Florida. Church leaders and supporters celebrated the reunion as a testament to personal restoration. However, legal ties shifted again in late 2025 when court records finalized a second uncontested divorce. Legal representatives for both parties emphasized that the separation remained amicable, noting an ongoing commitment to shared family bonds and mutual respect.
Purifying Fire International Ministry
Beyond her role alongside her husband, Suzanne established an independent platform through the founding of Purifying Fire International Ministry. While Benny Hinn's public platform historically centered on massive stadium crusades and healing services, Suzanne's independent ministry efforts leaned heavily into intercessory prayer, spiritual restoration, and scriptural teaching.
Her public teaching style is marked by an intense, direct delivery that occasionally sparks debate and viral attention across digital platforms. Despite controversies, her supporters view her as a dedicated advocate for spiritual discipline, fasting, and deep prayer. Her work emphasizes personal spiritual awakening rather than organizational administration, keeping her active in smaller prayer summits and focused ministry gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Suzanne Hinn's background?
Suzanne Hinn was born into a pastoral family led by Roy and Pauline Harthern. She grew up in Orlando, Florida, attended Bible colleges including Evangel College, and spent her life involved in Pentecostal and charismatic ministry.
How many children do Benny and Suzanne Hinn have?
They share four children: three daughters (Jessica, Natasha, and Hannah) and one son (Josh). Several of their children are also involved in Christian ministry and music.
What is Purifying Fire International?
Purifying Fire International is an organization associated with Suzanne Hinn that centers on intercessory prayer, spiritual healing, and Christian teaching. It operates separately from large-scale global crusade networks.
Is Suzanne Hinn still active in public ministry?
Yes. She continues to participate in prayer programs, Christian conferences, and teachings that focus on spiritual growth and intercession.
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