Faith at Altitude

Religion and spirituality in the shadow of Pikes Peak

Tuesday, May 15, 2007

Falwell Dead

The Rev. Jerry Falwell, founder of the Moral Majority and, really, the grandfather of the religious right, is dead. The 73-year-old pastor was found unconscious in his Liberty University office earlier this morning. At this point, no-one is sure what Falwell died of, but he had a history of heart troubles.

In evangelical circles, Falwell was often characterized as one of conservative evangelicalism's "big four," the others being televangelist Pat Robertson, prison ministry guru (and former Nixon aide) Chuck Colson and, of course, Focus on the Family's James Dobson. In many ways, Falwell was instrumental in shaping the evangelical movement -- or at least the perception of that movement -- from a massive group of believers who didn't even vote all that much to the political force they are today. It's probably not a coincidence that the Moral Majority was at the height of its power during Ronald Reagan's two-term run as president.

Now, at least in part to Falwell's influence, conservative Christians are a massive force within the Republican party. Falwell's own influence, though, has waned the last several years. Dobson's the guy these days.

3 Comments:

Blogger Jim Harper said...

He touched a lot of people, both positively and negatively. Did a lot of things that are difficult to see in a positive light. Will be interesting if he's in heaven when the rest of us get there.

6:06 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

It couldn't have happened fast enough. The fact that this bigot reached the levels he did is a testament to the cliches' "money is power" and "a fool and his money are soon parted". Too bad he will never know there is no heaven as he is placed in the people orchard. Good riddance.

9:26 AM  
Anonymous Andrew said...

I am sad that he passed, but honestly there are much more humble people to mourn. Paul said that regardless as long as the gospel is preached. Not sure whether he preached his own gospel or not but...I think that Pat Robertson and people like him should not be on television...

12:06 PM  

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