This week in Christian history: Word of Faith Fellowship accused of abuse, Albert Schweitzer licensed in theology

By Michael Gryboski, Mainline Church Editor Sunday, July 21, 2024

Albert Schweitzer licensed in theology – July 21, 1900

Albert Schweitzer (1875-1965), a Noble Peace Prize-winning doctor and theologian who authored the 1906 book 'The Quest of the Historical Jesus.' — Albert Schweitzer (1875-1965), a Noble Peace Prize-winning doctor and theologian who authored the 1906 book "The Quest of the Historical Jesus." | Wikimedia Commons/Materialscientist

This week marks the anniversary of when Albert Schweitzer, the Nobel Peace Prize-winning theologian, musician, and doctor known for his work in Africa, became licensed in theology.

A native of a small village in Alsace, which was then controlled by Germany, Schweitzer received a licentiate in theology from the University of Strasbourg a year after earning a doctorate in philosophy.

“Albert hoped to turn his studies into a book. However, other projects intervened,” explained Christianity.com. “He wrote several books on theology and history that included his key ideas. On the whole he showed that those who call the gospels fiction are wrong.”

“After years of medical study, Albert went to Africa. He built a hospital and fought for many years against sleeping sickness, malaria and leprosy. During World War I, he was held as a prisoner, but used the time to write more books.”