Jimmy Carter, faith, Christianity, evangelical Christian, Southern Baptist Convention, Rosalynn Carter, Maranatha Baptist Church, Camp David Accords, Habitat for Humanity, humanitarian efforts, equal rights, social justice, presidential faith
Explore the deep faith of former President Jimmy Carter, his beliefs, and how his Christian devotion influenced his life and career. From his humanitarian efforts to his stance on social justice, Carter’s faith has been a guiding force in his lifelong journey of service.
Jimmy Carter’s Faith: A Journey of Devotion and Service
Former President Jimmy Carter has spent over a year in hospice care, according to Northeastern Global News. His end-of-life experience has been as unique as his life, reflecting his deep faith and dedication to service. Throughout his long and illustrious career, Carter often leaned on his religion for strength and comfort. This article delves into the faith of the former president, his beliefs, and how his faith influenced his life and career.
How is Jimmy Carter Doing?
Jimmy Carter entered end-of-life care in February 2023, following the passing of his wife, former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, in November 2023. Typically, end-of-life care patients pass away within the first six months, but Carter has defied these statistics. As of February 2024, he celebrated one year in hospice care and is now just three months away from his 100th birthday.
“President Carter continues to be at home with his family,” his family stated. “The family is pleased that his decision last year to enter hospice care has sparked so many family discussions across the country on an important subject.”
Carter’s time in hospice follows an unusually long and active career, including farming, politics, and human rights advocacy. His resilience in the face of end-of-life care reflects the strength and faith he has exhibited throughout his life.
What Does Jimmy Carter Believe About God?
Jimmy Carter is a devout Christian who has even served as a Sunday School teacher, according to WRBL. His faith journey gained national attention in 1976 when The New York Times labeled him a “deeply committed evangelical Christian,” per Gallup. Some even called him America’s “Evangelical-in-Chief.”
However, Carter’s beliefs do not entirely align with those generally associated with evangelicals today. For instance, he believes that women should be able to be ordained and that homosexuality is not a sin. In 2000, Carter distanced himself from the Southern Baptist Convention as the denomination grew more politically and theologically conservative.
“I’m familiar with the verses they have quoted about wives being subjugated to their husbands,” he told reporters, per ABC. “In my opinion, this is a distortion of the meaning of scripture. … I personally feel the Bible says all people are equal in the eyes of God. I personally feel that women should play an absolutely equal role in service of Christ in the church.”
Carter strongly emphasized his equal partnership with his wife, Rosalynn, throughout his career. “Rosalynn was my equal partner in everything I ever accomplished,” Carter said in a statement on Rosalynn Carter’s death, according to the National Catholic Reporter. “She gave me wise guidance and encouragement when I needed it.”
The Carters worshipped together at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, Georgia, where they contributed to humanitarian, teaching, and worship efforts.
How Did Faith Play Into Jimmy Carter’s Career?
Carter took faith seriously not just in private but also in public. He was especially direct when he announced his candidacy in 1974, describing himself to the media as “a farmer, an engineer, a businessman, a planner, a scientist, a governor, and a Christian.” Christianity played a large role in his behind-the-scenes work. He cited scripture in interviews and speeches and drew strength from prayers while making important decisions.
“The most fervent and constant prayers of mine were while I was in the White House because I knew there was enormous responsibility on my shoulders, and we faced some very difficult decisions, too, concerning the lives of tens of thousands of people,” he said in an interview with WRBL. “So I prayed for wisdom and for God’s guidance that I wouldn’t make a mistake, that I could keep my country at peace and still preserve its integrity and security. Those are the kinds of things for which I prayed.”
His moral values played a role in some of his major initiatives, including the Camp David Accords, the transfer of Panama Canal ownership back to Panama, and his ongoing support for Habitat for Humanity.
“He tried to put human rights at the center of foreign policy,” said historian David Greenberg, per Rutgers. Many of Carter’s decisions reflected his faith-based commitment to service and the welfare of the people around him.
Carter’s Belief in Equality and Social Justice
Carter’s faith has always been intertwined with his belief in equality and social justice. He has consistently spoken out against injustices and has worked tirelessly to promote equality. His departure from the Southern Baptist Convention was a significant step in asserting his belief in gender equality within the church.
“I personally feel the Bible says all people are equal in the eyes of God,” he said. This belief was not just a personal conviction but also a guiding principle in his public service and humanitarian work.
The Role of Faith in Carter’s Humanitarian Efforts
Carter’s commitment to humanitarian efforts has been a testament to his faith. After his presidency, he continued to be active in various humanitarian causes, often citing his faith as the driving force behind his actions. He has been heavily involved with Habitat for Humanity, a nonprofit organization that builds affordable housing for those in need.
“My faith demands that I do whatever I can, wherever I am, whenever I can, for as long as I can, with whatever I have, to try to make a difference,” Carter once said, according to WRBL. This statement encapsulates his lifelong dedication to service and helping others.
Faith as a Source of Strength
Throughout his life, Carter has turned to his faith for strength and guidance. Whether facing political challenges, personal losses, or global crises, his faith has been a source of comfort and resilience. This unwavering faith has not only shaped his personal life but has also influenced his approach to leadership and service.
Conclusion
Jimmy Carter’s life and career have been deeply influenced by his faith. As a devout Christian, he has consistently drawn strength and guidance from his beliefs, which have shaped his approach to politics, humanitarian work, and personal relationships. His commitment to equality, social justice, and service reflects the core values of his faith, making him a unique and inspiring figure in American history.
As Carter nears his 100th birthday, his enduring faith continues to be a beacon of hope and inspiration for many. His journey serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that faith can have on one’s life and the world around them.
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