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As the nation mourns the loss of former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away on December 29, 2024, at the age of 100, faith leaders from all over the country are reflecting on his strong religious beliefs and the ways he lived them out.
In his 2018 publication “Faith: A Journey For All,” Carter expressed some of the pivotal lessons he gathered throughout his lifetime.
In this book, Carter emphasized, “The most important example of faith in my life has been the marriage vows I exchanged with Rosalynn,” indicating the deep commitment he held.
JIMMY CARTER SPENT NEARLY 2 YEARS IN HOSPICE CARE BEFORE HIS DEATH AT AGE 100
Carter reflected on the solemnity of the vows he made, stating, “Instead, we both took an oath before God ‘to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until death us do part.'” He often credited their mutual love and faith for overcoming life’s trials and differences.
Religious Engagement at Maranatha Baptist Church
Carter maintained an active role in his local church, Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, Georgia, where he taught Sunday school. This commitment continued intermittently throughout his life, with one notable instance being his sermon delivered on the day of Pentecost in 2019.
He poignantly stated, “Whenever we feel God in our hearts, that’s the Holy Spirit.”
In his teachings, he noted the continuing presence of Jesus even after resurrection, asserting, “So whenever we feel the presence of Jesus in our heart, that’s the Holy Spirit.” Furthermore, he remarked on the ease with which one might forget this profound belief.
Departure from the Southern Baptist Convention
Until 2009, Carter was a long-time member of the Southern Baptist Convention, where he became increasingly disillusioned with what he termed the organization’s rigid theology.
After 65 years of affiliation, he announced, “I can no longer be associated with the Southern Baptist Convention.” He nevertheless remained active as a deacon and Sunday school teacher, advocating for unity within the church. “Our prayer is that we can avoid this divisive action,” he stated, underscoring a desire to uphold traditional values that promote harmony.
Reflections from Faith Leaders
Reverend Franklin Graham, CEO of Samaritan’s Purse and the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, urged prayers for the Carter family in light of his passing. Graham recognized Carter’s presidency during tumultuous times, recounting, “He served as our nation’s 39th president during a turbulent time in the ’70s and ’80s when we were facing inflation and an oil shortage, and a hostage crisis in Iran.” He also acknowledged the close relationship between Carter and his father, Billy Graham.
Advocacy and Humanitarian Efforts
Pastor Jesse Bradley from Grace Community Church highlighted Carter’s journey of faith that began at an early age but was reinvigorated in 1967. “Carter’s life reflects a commitment to racial reconciliation and humanitarian action,” Bradley noted, emphasizing his dedication to Habitat for Humanity since 1984, advocating for equitable housing.
Bradley commented on the importance of community, urging individuals to foster genuine friendships and daily acts of love for one’s neighbor.
A Legacy of Religious Pluralism
Rabbi Pinchas Taylor hailed Carter as a pioneer of religious pluralism, noting that he was the first sitting president to light a Hanukkah menorah during a national ceremony in 1979. Taylor emphasized how Carter’s act resonated with the broader themes of hope and resilience during the Iran hostage crisis.
Despite the challenging circumstances at the time, Carter articulated a vision of unity and light in the face of adversity, which contributed significantly to the acceptance of public menorah lighting across the nation.
A Life of Service
Walker Wildmon, vice president of the American Family Association, encapsulated Carter’s essence as a servant leader. He praised Carter’s extensive efforts in humanitarian work and his unwavering commitment to family values throughout his life.
As tributes continue to flow, Carter’s legacy endures as a testament to faith, unity, and service to humanity.
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