Former President Jimmy Carter: A Legacy of Faith and Service

Former President Jimmy Carter, who recently turned 100 while in hospice care, has had a unique end-of-life experience that reflects his remarkable life journey. Carter, alongside his late wife Rosalynn Carter, has defied the odds in hospice care as his century mark was reached amidst family celebrations.

A devout Christian, Carter’s faith in religion has been a cornerstone throughout his life. His religious beliefs have been highlighted multiple times, especially during his presidency, earning him the title of «Evangelical-in-Chief» by The New York Times in 1976. However, Carter’s Christian beliefs often diverge from modern evangelical perspectives, as he advocates for gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights.

In 2000, Carter distanced himself from the Southern Baptist Convention due to its conservative shift, emphasizing his stance on the equal treatment of all individuals in the eyes of God. His partnership with Rosalynn Carter was always portrayed as equal and supportive, illustrating his commitment to gender equality both in his personal and public life.

The Carters’ worship at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, Georgia, further solidified their dedication to humanitarian efforts and community service. Carter’s faith was not confined to private spaces but was openly integrated into his political persona, with him identifying as a Christian farmer, engineer, and governor during his candidacy announcement in 1974.

Throughout his presidency, Carter found solace and guidance in prayer and scripture, particularly during challenging times like the Camp David Accords negotiation and the Panama Canal ownership transfer. His faith-based approach influenced major decisions, emphasizing human rights and global welfare in his foreign policy initiatives.

Carter’s commitment to service and making a difference reflects his moral compass rooted in his Christian faith. His legacy, marked by initiatives like Habitat for Humanity, continues to inspire generations with his belief in doing good wherever and whenever possible.