Ted Haggard
USA- Ted Haggard: Evangelical Preacher and Former Senior Pastor
- Views and Controversies
- Downfall and Accusations
- Public Apology and Aftermath
- Interview with Richard Dawkins
Ted Haggard: Evangelical Preacher and Former Senior Pastor
Early Life and CareerTed Arthur Haggard (born June 27, 1956) is a former American evangelical preacher who founded New Life Church in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He also established the Association of Life-Giving Churches and served as president of the National Association of Evangelicals from 2003 to November 2006.
Views and Controversies
Haggard was an outspoken critic of "homosexual activity," stating in the documentary film "Jesus Camp" that "There's no question on how we're to respond to homosexual activity. It's written in the Bible." He opposed same-sex marriage but supported the idea of civil unions for same-sex couples.
Downfall and Accusations
In November 2006, Haggard resigned or was removed from all his positions following accusations of homosexual sex and drug use made by former prostitute Mike Jones. Haggard initially denied knowing Jones but later admitted to purchasing methamphetamine and engaging in "sexual immorality."
Public Apology and Aftermath
On November 5, 2006, during a service at New Life Church, his letter was read aloud in which he labeled himself a "deceiver and liar" and asked for forgiveness from the congregation. In February 2007, Tim Ralph, who counseled Haggard, stated that Haggard was "completely heterosexual." Ralph later softened this statement, saying the therapy "gave Ted the tools to embrace the heterosexual side of him."
Interview with Richard Dawkins
In early 2006, Professor Richard Dawkins interviewed Haggard for the British television documentary "The Root of All Evil?" During the interview, Dawkins confronted Haggard about the contradictions between established scientific knowledge and a literal interpretation of the Bible, particularly regarding the creation of the world. Haggard responded by stating that he "completely accepts the scientific method" but that the conclusions about the age of the Earth and evolution were merely "the opinions of some factions within the scientific community."
As Dawkins and his camera crew were leaving, a brief confrontation occurred in the parking lot. According to Dawkins, Haggard ordered the crew to leave, stating that they had "called my children animals" and threatening legal action to confiscate their cameras. Dawkins later surmised that Haggard had been angered by his comment that all humans are animals.
