Harry Emerson Fosdick

Date of Birth: May 24, 1878

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: October 5, 1969

Biography

Harry Emerson Fosdick was a prominent American clergyman, born on May 24, 1878, in Buffalo, New York. He became one of the most celebrated preachers of the early 20th century, known for his progressive views and eloquent oratory skills. Fosdick was ordained as a Baptist minister in 1903 and served as pastor to several congregations throughout his career. He became widely recognized during his tenure at the First Presbyterian Church in New York City and later at the interdenominational Riverside Church, which was funded by John D. Rockefeller Jr. Fosdick was a leading voice in the Modernist-Fundamentalist controversy, advocating for a progressive Christianity that embraced modern science and scholarship. His 1922 sermon “Shall the Fundamentalists Win?” became a landmark in American religious history. Fosdick was also a prolific author, writing numerous books and articles that addressed social justice, personal faith, and the role of religion in contemporary society. He retired from Riverside Church in 1946 but continued to write and lecture until his death on October 5, 1969. His legacy includes a lasting influence on liberal Protestantism and a commitment to social reform and intellectual openness within the Christian tradition.

5 Interesting Facts about Harry Emerson Fosdick

1. Harry Emerson Fosdick was a recipient of the prestigious Freedom House Award in 1945 for his efforts in promoting democracy and human rights.

2. Fosdick’s sermon “Shall the Fundamentalists Win?” led to his resignation from First Presbyterian Church due to the controversy it sparked.

3. He was a close friend and advisor to John D. Rockefeller Jr., who funded the construction of Riverside Church where Fosdick served as pastor.

4. Fosdick was instrumental in founding the Union Theological Seminary’s Preaching Fellowship.

5. He was featured on the cover of Time magazine on September 21, 1925, highlighting his influence in American religious life.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Harry Emerson Fosdick

1. “Hating people is like burning down your own house to get rid of a rat.”

2. “He who chooses the beginning of a road chooses the place it leads to. It is the means that determine the end.”

3. “Liberty is always dangerous, but it is the safest thing we have.”

4. “The tragedy of war is that it uses man’s best to do man’s worst.”

5. “Life consists not simply in what heredity and environment do to us but in what we make out of what they do to us.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Harry Emerson Fosdick’s net worth is not well-documented, as his primary career was in ministry and religious writing rather than in business or finance. Any estimates would be speculative at best.

Children

Harry Emerson Fosdick had three children with his wife, Florence Allen Whitney. Their names were Dorothy Fosdick, a notable political analyst and advisor, John Foster Fosdick, and Marian Fosdick.