A mission leader for the Rev. Billy Graham said Friday the evangelist would give “careful review and consideration” to a request by boycott leaders that he stay away from Cincinnati.

        Jeff Anderson, who works for the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and is director of the Cincinnati mission, said the Rev. Mr. Graham learned of the boycott only on Friday and would need time before making any statements.

        In the meantime, Mr. Anderson said, the mission will move ahead as planned.

        “The unique thing about this mission is that he was invited by leaders of the community to promote the gospel and racial harmony,” Mr. Anderson said. “That invitation from those leaders has not been withdrawn, so we will proceed as planned.”

        Leaders of the Cincinnati Black United Front — one of two grassroots groups calling for a boycott of the city — announced Thursday they would try to encourage the Rev. Mr. Graham to cancel his summer mission. BUF leaders said the city has been receiving plenty of prayer, but not enough justice or economic inclusion.

        The free event is expected to draw 200,000 to Paul Brown Stadium June 27-30.

        The mission involves more than 600 area churches. An estimated 15,000 to 20,000 volunteers will serve as ushers, sing in the choir, minister in prisons or counsel newly committed Christians.

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