Date of Birth: June 16, 1931
Zodiac Sign: Gemini
Date of Death: September 12, 2021
Biography
John Shelby Spong was an influential American bishop of the Episcopal Church, known for his progressive and sometimes controversial views on Christianity. Born in Charlotte, North Carolina, Spong dedicated his life to reinterpreting Christian teachings in a modern context. He served as the Bishop of Newark, New Jersey, from 1979 until his retirement in 2000. Throughout his career, Spong advocated for social justice, inclusivity, and the reinterpretation of traditional doctrines. He authored over 20 books, including bestsellers like “Rescuing the Bible from Fundamentalism” and “Why Christianity Must Change or Die,” which challenged conventional Christian beliefs and encouraged a more inclusive faith. Spong’s work has had a significant impact on both religious and secular communities, prompting discussions on the future of Christianity in the modern world.
5 Interesting Facts about John Shelby Spong
1. Spong was the first American bishop to ordain an openly gay man to the priesthood in 1989.
2. He was a vocal critic of the literal interpretation of the Bible, advocating for a more metaphorical and symbolic understanding.
3. Spong was an advocate for women’s rights within the church, supporting the ordination of women.
4. He survived a near-fatal heart attack in 2002, which he described as a transformative experience.
5. Spong’s book “Living in Sin? A Bishop Rethinks Human Sexuality” was groundbreaking in its support for LGBTQ+ rights within the church.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from John Shelby Spong
1. “Christianity is, I believe, about expanded life, heightened consciousness, and achieving a new humanity.”
2. “The church is not called to be the enforcer of moral behavior. It is called to be the place where those who have failed can find hope.”
3. “Faith is not about believing certain things. It’s about living in a relationship of trust with God.”
4. “The Bible is not the word of God. It is the product of the word of God.”
5. “To be a Christian, one must be willing to open one’s mind to new truth and new possibilities.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
John Shelby Spong’s highest net worth was estimated to be around $1 million, primarily from book sales and speaking engagements.
Children
John Shelby Spong had three children: a son and two daughters. Their names are Ellen Spong, Kathleen Spong, and Brian Spong.
Relevant Links
1. [John Shelby Spong – Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Shelby_Spong
2. [John Shelby Spong – Official Website](http://johnshelbyspong.com/
4. [John Shelby Spong’s Books on Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/John-Shelby-Spong/e/B000AP7W1S
