Popular Baptist speaker, author, and sociologist Anthony “Tony” Campolo dies
Anthony “Tony” Campolo, American Baptist Churches USA pastor, sociologist, and spiritual advisor to President Bill Clinton, died Nov. 19 at age 89.
Campolo, a native of Philadelphia, was known for his charismatic preaching, which made him a popular speaker at college campuses, churches, and Christian conferences. In his sermons he was often passionate about social issues like poverty and racism, encouraging Christians to put their faith in action to change the world.
He shocked his audience in one of his sermons by saying, “I have three things I'd like to say today. First, while you were sleeping last night, 30,000 kids died of starvation or diseases related to malnutrition. Second, most of you don't give a shit. What's worse is that you're more upset with the fact that I said shit than the fact that 30,000 kids died last night.”
Though Campolo was a Democrat and associated with liberal groups and causes, he publically opposed abortion and any situation that would result in the termination of life. In the 1980s his liberal views caused friction with leaders of the religious right such as Jerry Falwell.
Campolo was the author of 35 books, which included “It’s Friday but Sunday’s Comin’,” “A Reasonable Faith,” and “The Kingdom of God Is a Party.”