Tony Campolo, a prominent voice in progressive Christianity, co-founder of the Red Letter Christian movement, speaker, author, and university professor, died on November 19th. He was 89 years old. Mr. Campolo taught at the University of Pennsylvania, but spent most of his academic career at Eastern University, where he taught sociology and headed the Campolo Missionary Center. He has written over 35 books. the It's Friday but Sunday is coming, rational faith, the kingdom of God is a party.and Red Letter Christians: A Citizen's Guide to Faith and Politics.
“Throughout his life, Tony was a shining example of kindness, vigor, integrity, and dedication, and a man of evangelical scholarship, inspirational communication, and missionary work,” an obituary posted on Eastern University's website said. He left behind a wonderful legacy of influence.” “His message and memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him best and in the countless lives he touched through his work.”
In 2017, he founded Red Letter Christians, a movement that teaches that “Jesus is the lens through which we interpret the Bible” and takes liberal positions on hot-button social issues such as same-sex marriage and transgenderism. contributed to the increase. Campolo himself expressed support for same-sex marriage in 2015. His views on abortion are more nuanced, and although he calls himself pro-life, he said evangelicals must address the economic issues that lead women to abortion.
To his supporters, Campolo was best known as a champion of social justice, love, and reconciliation.
Occasionally, he challenged his Christian audience by taunting them.
“While you were sleeping last night, 30,000 children died from hunger and diseases related to malnutrition. Most of you don't even think about it…” he often said. Said. “What's worse is that you're more upset about the fact that I said that than you are about the fact that 30,000 children died last night.”
Mr. Campolo also emphasized the importance of civil dialogue among Christians. In the 1990s, he co-hosted with Bill Tarpey, hash it out, There, we had thoughtful discussions about controversial issues over coffee in a diner.
Christian leaders said his influence was immense.
“When I was at Newman magazine, I wrote an open letter challenging him on certain points of theology,” author Drew Dyck said. I wrote. “Not only did he reply with a long letter, he met me when he came to town. “Rest in peace, Tony.” Thank you for your life, service, and kindness. ”
Wow, I saw Tony Campolo passed away.
When I was at Newman magazine, I wrote him an open letter and challenged him on certain points of theology. Not only did he reply with a long letter, he also met me when passing through town. He was very polite and seemingly unfazed by anything…
— Drew (@drewdyck) November 20, 2024
“I am saddened to hear that Tony Campolo passed away today at the age of 89,” wrote V3 Movement National Director J.R. Woodward. “He inspired me to be more like Jesus and to care for the poor, immigrants, the oppressed, and the hungry.”
Sad to hear that Tony Campolo passed away today at the age of 89. https://t.co/pSzfwYB0o1 He inspired me to be more like Jesus and care for the poor, immigrants, the oppressed, and the hungry. In memory of a life well lived, here are some of Tony Campolo's famous quotes. pic.twitter.com/0cY2A7xl2Z
— JR Woodward Nani ✍️ (@dreamawakener) November 20, 2024
A celebration of life service will be held at Eastern University in early 2025.
He is survived by his wife, Peggy;
Tony Campolo passed away today.
He was 89 years old.
He was one of the most talented preachers I have ever heard.
If you have a few minutes, listen to his story about the time he threw a prostitute's birthday party in Hawaii.
It's worth your time. pic.twitter.com/8oHjiUulGc
— Ryan Burge📊 (@ryanburge) November 20, 2024
Photo courtesy: ©Facebook/tony campolo
michael faust has covered the intersection of faith and news for 20 years. His articles have appeared in Baptist Press, Christianity Today, Christian Post, Leaf Chronicle, Toronto Star, and Knoxville News Sentinel.
