Old-time religion

Long before the age of Falwell and Robertson, evangelical Protestants from William Jennings Bryan to Billy Graham were anything but right-wing zealots. Today, a new generation of evangelical leaders are rediscovering their progressive roots.

Rev. Harold Ockenga (left) of Boston's Park Street Church formed the National Association of Evangelicals in 1940. At right is Jerry Falwell and Pat Robertson (center). (Boston Globe/File 1959, Josh Meltzer/The New York Times, AP Photo) Boston Globe/File 1959, Josh Meltzer/The New York Times, AP Photo

By Harvey Cox

July 9, 2006

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IN THE SPRING OF LAST YEAR, President Bush flew to Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Mich. Because of its conservative religious reputation, his advisers thought it would be a safe and friendly place, but the visit did not turn out as expected. He was greeted by a petition, signed by a third of the faculty, and a large student demonstration. ... (Full article: 2095 words)