In Memory of Krister Stendahl

Krister Stendahl at University Lutheran in 2004

Krister Stendahl at University Lutheran in 2004. Photo by Chris Pollari.

We are grateful for the life of Bishop Krister Stendahl, a longtime member of University Lutheran Church, who died on Tuesday, April 15, 2008 at the age of 86. Bishop Stendahl served as dean of Harvard Divinity School (1968-79) and bishop of Stockholm, Sweden (1984-88), and was a renowned New Testament scholar who worked for interfaith understanding.

Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Dr. Brita Stendahl, and their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

The funeral service took place on April 18, 2008 at University Lutheran. (Read the funeral sermon by Rev. Thomas B. Chittick (PDF).) On May 16, 2008, a memorial service at Harvard's Memorial Church celebrated his life and accomplishments.

All are welcome to read memories of Bishop Stendahl in our online guestbook. To add your entry, please email our webmaster.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to University Lutheran Church in support of the Harvard Square Homeless Shelter (program description | donate online), or to the International Rescue Committee (organization website | give online).

About Bishop Stendahl

By Bishop Stendahl

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