More than 2,000 individuals, mostly Protestant, congregated at Manhattan’s St. Patrick’s Cathedral on Tuesday to bid farewell to Dr. Timothy Keller, a man whose unique style of intellectual preaching, writing, and speaking had a profound impact on their lives. Thousands more witnessed the service through online streaming.
For nearly three decades, Dr. Timothy Keller served as the senior pastor at Redeemer Presbyterian Church, a congregation he founded with the goal of transforming New York City and sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ in a city that many perceived to be spiritually deprived. Keller firmly believed that cities, especially New York, were full of diverse individuals who bore God’s image, making them receptive to hearing the message of faith. Through his teaching ministry, Redeemer grew into a church with a weekly attendance of over 5,000.
What set Keller apart was his ability to genuinely listen to those who opposed his faith, according to his longtime friend Glen Kleinknecht. By understanding people’s wants and needs, he was able to profoundly impact their lives. Keller passed away on May 19 at the age of 72 after battling pancreatic cancer. It wasn’t until Tuesday evening that thousands came together to mourn his loss since he was buried within three days of his death.
The fact that Keller’s memorial service took place at the iconic St. Patrick’s Cathedral highlights his commitment to ecumenism and his desire to prioritize the Gospel over denominational differences. Cardinal Timothy Cardinal Dolan, Archbishop of New York, warmly welcomed the Keller family and celebrated Keller as a beloved and admired figure.
During the service, attendees from various walks of life paid tribute to Keller’s impact, highlighting the intimate relationships he fostered and the transformative power of his teachings. Keller’s preaching emphasized the personal relationship with Christ and how faith was not just an accessory but the very essence of life.
Despite being a best-selling author and a respected figure, Keller remained humble and dedicated to serving others. His friend and author Sam Allberry spoke about Keller’s love for Jesus and his ability to see deep truths within scriptural passages while making them accessible to modern-day audiences. Keller’s sermons continue to be available online, reaching a global audience.
Dr. Timothy Keller’s influence extended beyond his preaching. His legacy is a countercultural movement against the idols of modernity, inspiring individuals to live with faith as the center of their lives.
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