• Faith: Christian
• Career: Pastor
• Birthday:  February 25, 1935
• Date of Death:  November 19, 2024

Tony Campolo was a prominent American sociologist, Baptist pastor, author, public speaker, and spiritual advisor to President Bill Clinton. Known as a leading voice in the evangelical left, Campolo was an influential figure in religious, political, and social discourse. He frequently appeared as a guest on prominent programs, including "The Colbert Report," "The Charlie Rose Show," "Larry King Live," "Nightline," "Crossfire," "Politically Incorrect," and "The Hour," offering insights on a wide range of topics.

Campolo was raised in a close-knit family in Philadelphia, the son of Italian immigrants. His upbringing in a diverse community, including attending a predominantly Black church, profoundly shaped his perspectives on race and social issues. This early exposure to cultural diversity instilled in him a deep empathy for marginalized communities and a passion for addressing systemic injustices.

He pursued higher education at Eastern College (now Eastern University), where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. Campolo furthered his studies by obtaining a Ph.D. in sociology from Temple University. His academic background provided a foundation for his future endeavors, blending sociological insights with theological principles.

Campolo's professional journey was multifaceted, encompassing roles as an educator, pastor, author, and activist. He served as a professor of sociology at Eastern University and held a faculty position at the University of Pennsylvania. In 1969, he founded the Evangelical Association for the Promotion of Education (EAPE), an organization dedicated to creating and supporting programs for at-risk youth in the United States and Canada. Under his leadership, EAPE established schools and universities in several developing countries, reflecting his commitment to global education and empowerment.

As an ordained minister, Campolo was associated with the American Baptist Churches USA and served as an associate pastor at Mount Carmel Baptist Church in West Philadelphia. His dynamic preaching style, characterized by compelling storytelling and a focus on social justice, resonated with diverse audiences. He was a sought-after speaker, delivering messages that challenged conventional evangelical thought and emphasized the importance of addressing societal issues through a Christian lens.

In 1998, Campolo served as a spiritual adviser to President Bill Clinton, providing counsel during a tumultuous period in American politics. His role highlighted his influence and the respect he garnered across various sectors.

One of Campolo's significant contributions to contemporary Christian thought was the co-founding of the Red Letter Christian movement in 2007, alongside Shane Claiborne. The movement emphasizes the teachings of Jesus, often highlighted in red letters in some Bible editions, advocating for a faith that prioritizes social justice, peace, and care for the marginalized. Campolo believed that focusing on Jesus' words could bridge the gap between evangelicalism and progressive social activism, encouraging Christians to live out their faith through tangible actions that reflect Christ's teachings.

Throughout his career, Campolo authored over 35 books covering topics such as theology, social issues, and personal faith. Notable works include "A Reasonable Faith," "Red Letter Christians," and "Letters to a Young Evangelical." His writings often challenged readers to reconsider traditional interpretations of scripture and to engage actively in social justice initiatives.

Campolo's media presence extended to television and radio, where he hosted programs that discussed faith and social issues. In March 2011, he began hosting the TV show "Red Letter Christians," which featured interviews with leaders in the movement and explored the intersection of faith and social justice.

Campolo married his wife, Peggy, in 1958. Their partnership spanned over six decades, marked by mutual support and shared commitment to ministry and social causes. The couple had two children: a daughter, Lisa Goodheart, and a son, Bart Campolo.

Bart Campolo, once a prominent Christian minister, underwent a significant spiritual transformation, eventually identifying as a humanist. This shift led to the collaborative book "Why I Left, Why I Stayed," where father and son engaged in a candid dialogue about faith, belief, and their personal journeys. The book provided insights into their relationship and the complexities of faith transitions within families.

In June 2020, Campolo suffered a severe stroke that left him partially paralyzed on the left side of his face and body. Despite these health challenges, he remained mentally sharp and spiritually resilient.

Tony Campolo passed away on November 19, 2024, at his home in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, surrounded by family and loved ones. His death marked the end of a remarkable life dedicated to faith, education, and social justice.

Tony Campolo's Religious Beliefs

Campolo was a devout Christian and was ordained a Baptist pastor in 1957.

The child of Italian American immigrants, Campolo said his belief that Christianity could change lives in this world — as well as saving people’s souls — grew out of his childhood.

In a 2016 online interview, he told the story of how a Baptist mission changed the course of his family’s life.

“My father couldn’t find a job and they were totally impoverished, and a Baptist mission in South Philadelphia reached out to them, got my father a job, got them a place to stay, put their feet on solid ground and really saved them from despair and destitution,” he recalled. “People often ask me: ‘Where did you get your social consciousness? Where did you get your commitment to the poor, before it was ever fashionable?’ My mother and father saw in the way they were treated by a group of Baptists that this is what Christianity is about. It’s not about getting a ticket to heaven, it’s about becoming an instrument of God to transform this world.”

Campolo showed a knack for reaching young people with the Christian gospel and then inspiring them to go out and work to change the world. In the process, he often challenged the religious right.