Tony Campolo, a towering figure in Christian ministry, social activism, and academic thought, has passed away at the age of 89. Known for his unwavering commitment to Jesus’ teachings and his passion for addressing societal inequalities, Campolo left an indelible mark on countless lives worldwide. He died peacefully at his home in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, surrounded by family and loved ones.

A statement shared on his official Facebook page described his life as “a testament to faith, love, and the transformative power of relationships.” The post added, “For more than six decades, as a pastor, distinguished professor, mesmerizing public speaker, and prolific author, Tony touched countless lives around the world with his hopeful message of social justice, love, and reconciliation.”

Shane Claiborne, a close friend and co-founder of Red Letter Christians, called Campolo a “dear friend and brother” in a heartfelt tribute on social media. “Tony Campolo has been my partner in ministry for the past 20+ years,” Claiborne wrote. “I will miss him something fierce, but I know there’s a party on the other side.”

Born on February 25, 1935, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Tony Campolo dedicated his life to living out and sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ. His charismatic preaching and thought-provoking teachings combined theology with a call to action, inspiring Christians to engage with issues of poverty, social justice, and reconciliation.

As a professor of sociology at Eastern University and a faculty member at the University of Pennsylvania, Campolo blended academic insight with spiritual wisdom. His impact extended beyond the classroom as he authored over 30 books, offering practical and spiritual guidance to readers across generations.

One of his most enduring legacies is the Evangelical Association for the Promotion of Education, a ministry he founded to serve underprivileged communities. For nearly four decades, this organization embodied Campolo’s belief that faith must be lived out through action.

In 2007, Campolo co-founded Red Letter Christians, a movement rooted in the belief that Jesus’s words—often printed in red in many Bibles—should guide Christian living. Campolo described it as a call to prioritize love, justice, and mercy, as taught by Jesus, in addressing the challenges of the modern world.

“We believe in the black letters, too, and are convinced the whole Bible is God’s word,” he once explained. “But Jesus is the lens through which we interpret the Bible, and the lens through which we interpret the world we live in.”

Campolo’s bold stances on issues such as social justice, poverty alleviation, and LGBTQ+ inclusion often drew criticism from more conservative Christians. However, he remained steadfast in his convictions, emphasizing the centrality of love and reconciliation to the Christian faith.

While Campolo distanced himself from the politicized label of “Evangelical” in later years, he held firmly to traditional beliefs about salvation and atonement. “I believe that when Jesus died on the cross He took upon Himself the sins of people who will repent and trust in Him for their salvation,” he once stated.

Despite criticism, Campolo’s commitment to engaging with the complexities of faith and culture never wavered. His courage in addressing difficult topics made him a voice of compassion and integrity in a divided world.

Campolo’s life was defined by his love for God, his family, and humanity. Married to his wife, Peggy, for over 65 years, the couple raised two children and enjoyed the blessings of four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

His ministry extended to millions through his books, sermons, and public speaking engagements. Those who knew him personally remember not only his intellectual brilliance but also his warm and generous spirit.

“Tony lived the gospel he preached,” one admirer noted. “He didn’t just talk about love and justice; he embodied them.”

Tony Campolo’s passing leaves a profound void in the Christian community, but his legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched. The Red Letter Christians movement continues to amplify Jesus’ message, offering hope and a call to action in a world in desperate need of both.

As the world reflects on his life and contributions, let us remember Campolo’s enduring reminder: faith is not just about what we believe but about how we live.

In his words: “The Kingdom of God is a party, and everyone’s invited. Let’s live like it.”

Rest in peace, Tony Campolo—a life well-lived in service to God and others.