Lloyd John Ogilvie facts for kids
Lloyd John Ogilvie (born September 2, 1930 – died June 5, 2019) was a special kind of minister called a Presbyterian pastor. He became very well known for serving as the Chaplain of the United States Senate. This means he was the spiritual leader for the U.S. Senators from 1995 to 2003.
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Early Life and Education
Lloyd John Ogilvie was born in Kenosha, Wisconsin, on September 2, 1930. He went to public schools in Kenosha. Later, he studied at Lake Forest College and Garrett Theological Seminary. He also did more advanced studies in Scotland at the New College of the University of Edinburgh.
Ministry and Leadership
Dr. Ogilvie dedicated his life to serving others through his ministry. He worked in several churches across the United States. His journey included leading congregations in different cities.
- Student Pastor, Gurnee Community Church, Gurnee, Illinois (1952–1956)
- Pastor, Winnetka Presbyterian Church, Winnetka, Illinois (1956–1962)
- Pastor, First Presbyterian Church, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania (1962–1972)
- Pastor, First Presbyterian Church of Hollywood, Los Angeles, California (1972–1995)
- Chaplain, United States Senate, Washington, D.C. (1995–2003)
- President, Leadership Unlimited (2003–2019)
Media Ministry: "Let God Love You"
Dr. Ogilvie also shared his messages through radio and television. His popular program was called "Let God Love You." This show was on TV for 17 years and on radio for 10 years. It was broadcast from the First Presbyterian Church of Hollywood.
The main goal of "Let God Love You" was to help people. Dr. Ogilvie encouraged listeners to write to him. He wanted to understand their worries and help them find strength. He believed in turning life's challenges into opportunities for growth. The program was supported by donations from its viewers and listeners. Dr. Ogilvie did not take a salary from this media work.
Serving as Senate Chaplain
On January 24, 1995, Dr. Ogilvie was chosen as the 61st Chaplain of the United States Senate. He started this important job on March 11, 1995. His main duty was to open the Senate each day with a prayer.
Beyond daily prayers, he offered guidance and support to Senators. He also helped their families and staff members. This meant he was a spiritual advisor to about 6,000 people. Dr. Ogilvie met with Senators to discuss important moral issues. He also helped their staff with questions about faith. He led several Bible study and prayer groups for Senators. He saw his role as being a trusted friend and counselor. He aimed to help them make good decisions for the country. He made sure his role was not about politics or any specific group.
Later Life and Legacy
Dr. Lloyd John Ogilvie passed away on June 5, 2019, at the age of 88. He left behind a lasting impact. In 2006, he helped establish the Lloyd John Ogilvie Institute of Preaching at Fuller Seminary. This institute continues his work of teaching and inspiring others.
Awards and Recognition
Dr. Ogilvie received many awards and special degrees for his work. These honors recognized his dedication and influence.
Selected Awards
- Distinguished Service Citation, Lake Forest College
- Preacher of the Year, Religion in Media
- Angel Award for Religion in Media
- Silver Angel Award for Television Ministry (1982, 1986)
- Gold Medallion Book Award for "Making Stress Work For You" (1985)
- William Booth Award, The Salvation Army (1992)
- Named one of the "Twelve Most Effective Preachers in the English-Speaking World" by Baylor University (1996)
Honorary Degrees
Many universities gave Dr. Ogilvie honorary degrees. These degrees recognized his achievements and contributions. Some of these include:
- Doctor of Divinity, Whitworth University (1973)
- Doctor of Humane Letters, University of Redlands (1974)
- Doctor of Humanities, Moravian College (1975)
- Doctor of Laws, Eastern University (1988)
- Doctor of Divinity, Westmont College (1997)
- Doctor of Divinity, Lake Forest College (1997)
- Doctor of Laws, Pepperdine University (1998)
- Doctor of Divinity, University of Edinburgh (2003)
Personal Life
Lloyd Ogilvie was married to Mary Jane Jenkins Ogilvie, who passed away in 2003. He later married Doris Kaiser Sumner. He had three children: Heather, Scott, and Andrew Ogilvie. He also had four grandchildren: Erin, Airley, Bonnie, and Scotter Ogilvie.
