PLAINS, Ga. — In a significant moment for American history, the peace agreement reached in 1978 between Egypt’s Anwar Sadat and Israel’s Menachem Begin was a culmination of months of hard work and dedicated diplomacy by President Jimmy Carter. Not just a political leader, Carter emphasized the shared faith among the three leaders as crucial to their success.
Carter often spoke of the common ground found in their belief in God, saying, “We all considered ourselves the sons of Abraham,” linking this spiritual connection back to their respective faiths: Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. As the 39th president of the United States, who passed away recently at the age of 100, Carter was recognized not only as a leader but also as a man of deep faith.
His post-presidency years were marked by a commitment to helping others, from building homes for those in need to working on public health initiatives globally. Even in politics, Carter was distinct for intertwining his Christian values with his policies, often citing scripture and religious leaders to support his positions.
David Gergen, who served as an adviser to four presidents, remarked that while many politicians pursue personal power, Carter sought the “national soul,” illustrating a different purpose behind his political ambitions.
As a candidate in 1976, Carter openly identified as a “born-again Christian,” a phrase that resonated with many Southern voters but puzzled the broader national audience. In the mid-1970s, evangelicals were not yet seen as a powerful political bloc, making Carter’s candidacy notable.
During his time in office, Carter was a vocal champion of human rights within U.S. foreign policy, addressing environmental concerns and advocating against military engagement. His moral standing extended even to other world leaders.
In his personal life, Carter embodied his faith daily, focusing on service rather than solely on politics. He faced both praise and criticism for his views, especially as they sometimes contrasted with the predominantly secular trends within the Democratic Party. While he believed in the separation of church and state, he also demonstrated a commitment to public service inspired by his Christian beliefs.
Carter’s perspectives on several issues, including race relations and women’s rights, evolved significantly over the years. His eventual departure from Southern Baptists was prompted by the denomination’s attitudes towards women, illustrating his commitment to advocating for equality.
Even in his later years, he maintained a complex stance on same-sex marriage, expressing a more accepting view compared to his earlier beliefs. He described his shift towards a broader understanding of human rights, illustrating a willingness to adapt his views as societal views evolved.
Through it all, Carter’s faith remained a driving force in his life and career. His legacy embodies a unique blend of personal belief, public service, and political action, one that emphasizes compassion and a commitment to understanding others, irrespective of their background or beliefs.
