Mary Ann Lundy, a significant figure in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and the World Council of Churches, has passed away at the age of 92. Her contributions to the church and her advocacy for social justice have left a profound impact on many lives.
According to the Presbyterian News Service, Lundy died on March 11 in Bloomington, Minnesota. She is survived by her loving husband, two children, and seven grandchildren, who will surely cherish her legacy.
Born in Morgantown, West Virginia, in 1932, Lundy dedicated her life to service and leadership in the church. After graduating from West Virginia University in 1954, she pursued a Master of Divinity at Union Theological Seminary in New York, completing her studies in 1957. Her early work included roles at the Presbytery of the Twin Cities Area and directing the National Student YWCA in New York.
Lundy’s commitment to social justice became particularly evident during the 1980s when she became involved in the Sanctuary Movement. This interfaith coalition aimed to provide refuge and support for Latin American refugees fleeing violence and persecution. Her involvement was not without controversy; she faced legal challenges, including being placed under house arrest in 1986 as an unindicted co-conspirator. This experience highlighted the risks many faith leaders took in standing up for what they believed was right, even in the face of government scrutiny.
In a remarkable display of courage, Lundy reported receiving threatening phone calls and visits from FBI agents due to her activism. She described these encounters as harrowing, recalling the anxiety they caused her family. Despite the intimidation, she remained steadfast in her commitment to advocacy for those in need.
In 1993, Lundy played a pivotal role in organizing "Re-Imagining: God, the Community, the Church," a gathering that drew around 2,000 attendees. This event focused on feminist theology and women’s solidarity, although it faced criticism for its perceived promotion of controversial ideas. Lundy’s dedication to the church was unwavering; despite the backlash, she stated, "I won’t leave the Presbyterian Church. It brought me up, nurtured me."
Her leadership extended beyond national boundaries. From 1995 to 1999, Lundy served as the deputy general secretary of the World Council of Churches, where she continued her work in ecumenism and women’s issues. Her contributions were recognized by many, including the Rev. Konrad Raiser, former WCC general secretary, who praised her ability to foster trust and collaboration among church leaders.
Mary Ann Lundy’s life was a blend of faith, activism, and leadership. Her story serves as an inspiration for many within the Christian community and beyond. As we remember her contributions, it is essential to reflect on the values she championed: compassion, justice, and unwavering faith in the face of adversity.
For those wishing to learn more about Mary Ann Lundy’s legacy and her impact on the church, you can explore resources from the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and the World Council of Churches. These organizations continue to uphold the values she embodied, ensuring that her spirit lives on in their missions and efforts.