The Most Religious American President? How about “TR”? Rick Marschall

The Most Religious American President? « Monday Morning Music Ministry by Rick Marschall.

Through the “Aquila Report” this week I learned about this blog post from the pen of author Rick Marschall (The link above is to his blog.). During this presidential campaign season, he raises the question of who might be the most “religious” (observant) president we have had here in the U.S. His choice? Teddy Roosevelt. Did you know that he was Dutch Reformed? Did you know how “religious” he was while in office? How his faith impacted what he said and did? You might want to check out what Marschall has to say – and take note of his book on “TR” as well. As it turns out, Oct.27 (today!) was also “TR’s” birthday 🙂

Here are a few lines to get you started; read the rest at the “Monday Morning Music Ministry” link above.

In my case I hold Theodore Roosevelt in particular regard. A year ago my biography of him, BULLY! (Regnery History, 440 pages, illustrated entirely by vintage political cartoons), was published, and I devoted a chapter to TR’s faith. (Indeed, I am working on a full book on the theme.) One thing I have come to appreciate about TR is something that largely has been neglected by history books. That is, the aspect of his fervent Christian faith. In some ways, he might be seen as the most Christian and the most religious of all presidents; and by “religious” I mean most observant.

Theodore Roosevelt’s name at the top of the list of religiously observant presidents might surprise some people, yet that surprise would itself bear witness to the nature of his faith: privately held, but permeating countless speeches, writings, and acts … He was of the Dutch Reformed Church. He participated in missions work with his father, a noted philanthropist. He taught weekly Sunday School classes during his four years at Harvard. He wrote for Christian publications.

…TR was not perfect, but he knew the One who is. Fond of saying that he would “speak softly and carry a big stick,” it truly can be said, also, that Theodore Roosevelt hid the Word in his heart, and acted boldly. He was a great American because he was thoroughgoing good man; and he was a good man because he was a humble believer.

Remember Theodore Roosevelt on his birthday, Oct 27, days before the election. Remember him every day -– we are not seeing his kind any more.