James A. Forbes

Date of Birth: September 6, 1935

Zodiac Sign: Virgo

Biography

James A. Forbes is an influential American clergyman known for his impactful preaching and community leadership. Born in 1935 in Burgaw, North Carolina, Forbes grew up in a deeply religious household, which fostered his early interest in the church and ministry. He pursued theological studies at Union Theological Seminary in New York, where he earned his Master of Divinity degree. Later, he completed his Doctor of Ministry degree at Colgate Rochester Divinity School. Forbes is best known for his tenure as the Senior Minister of The Riverside Church in New York City, a position he held from 1989 to 2007. Riverside Church is renowned for its progressive stance on social issues, and under Forbes’ leadership, it continued to champion causes such as civil rights, economic justice, and peace. Throughout his career, Forbes has been a prominent voice in the fight for social justice, regularly speaking out on issues such as racism, poverty, and LGBTQ+ rights. He has held numerous academic positions, including serving as the Harry Emerson Fosdick Adjunct Professor of Preaching at Union Theological Seminary. Forbes is also the founder of the Healing of the Nations Foundation, an organization dedicated to fostering spiritual and social renewal.

5 Interesting Facts about James A. Forbes

1. James A. Forbes was the first African-American to serve as Senior Minister at The Riverside Church in New York City.

2. He has been named one of the 12 “most effective preachers” in the English-speaking world by Newsweek magazine.

3. Forbes is an accomplished musician and often incorporates music into his sermons and public speaking engagements.

4. He has received more than a dozen honorary degrees from institutions around the world.

5. Forbes founded the Healing of the Nations Foundation, which aims to promote spiritual and social renewal.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from James A. Forbes

1. “Preaching is the art of making the word of God come alive in the hearts and minds of people.”

2. “Justice is love correcting that which revolts against love.”

3. “The church must be reminded that it is not the master or the servant of the state, but rather the conscience of the state.”

4. “True faith is not a destination, but a journey of love and service.”

5. “We are all called to be instruments of peace and justice in a world that desperately needs both.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

James A. Forbes’ highest net worth is not publicly documented, as he has devoted much of his life to ministry and social service rather than accumulating personal wealth.