Martin Marty, a leading figure who interpreted religion in American public discourse, passed away at 97. His analysis served journalists during major religious moments, like the presidency of Jimmy Carter and debates over church-state separation. Marty emphasized the importance of not portraying faith in a way that ostracizes others, arguing that it undermines citizenship. Educated and inspiring, he left a significant mark on religious scholarship, influencing many with his ability to frame complex religious narratives coherently and thoughtfully.
"The Southern Baptist Tradition at its best is one that doesn't want merging of church and state," Marty said. "And all you ever have to do to someone like Carter is to remind him that he might be tilting that way and he would back off very fast."
"It is terribly offensive," he explained, "if you create the impression that other believers or non-believers can't be full citizens."
Marty helped listeners understand the fiery tone of Barack Obama's pastor during the 2008 presidential campaign. "A lot of Jeremiah Wright's rhetoric matches that of Martin Luther King," he said.
Collection
[
|
...
]