Memorial Tribute to Robert E. Webber (Page 2)

(1933-2007)

"Whatever thy hand findeth to do, do it with all thy might."--Ecclesiates 9:10 KJV
(Bob's life verse)

This page is for all the friends, family, students, alumni and colleagues of Robert Webber whose lives have been touched by this extraordinary saint. Thank you for your reflections and memories of Bob and we hope that as you see your own stories posted and read the inspirational stories of others that you will glimpse Bob's vision of the fullness of life lived in Christ and his desire for everyone to find their part in God's story.

I never met Bob Webber. It had been my sincere desire to do so for some time now. I was born and raised in a Pentecostal context. Several years ago, I began to find myself increasingly uncomfortable with my place in the church. I graduated in 1999 with a BA in Ministerial Studies, having learned much more regarding theology and church history. My studies made me more and more dissatisfied with church as usual. I even came to the place where I jokingly wondered if I had been born out of time.  

Then in the fall of 1999, I read Bob Webber for the first time in Worship Leader magazine. I was ecstatic! Here was someone speaking a language I could understand. Even more than that, I realized through reading him that I was not alone in my discomfort. Indeed, my passion and understanding about ministry were actually quite attuned to our contemporary cultural context. From those first few articles I read, I found someone who affirmed my thinking and broadened it far more than I could imagine. In many ways, I felt as if I was coming home when I would read his work. Over and over again I would mark up whatever copy I was reading. Often I would put the text down and look for someone to share it with. His thoughts thoroughly energized my like little I have read. I returned to seminary in 2000, graduating with an M.Div. in 2003. Throughout this whole process, I have continued to read his work and follow his thoughts.

Dr. Webber's work came at a crucial time in my own development. Not even knowing what he was doing, he made me feel at home in my calling and vision for ministry. I am saddened by his passing. In a very real way, I feel it as a personal loss. A mentor I have known but never met has passed from this life. My soul and my ministry will forever bear the marks of his influence. I am certain that in the resurrection, he will share in a reward for whatever is done for the glory of God through my ministry. I give my sincerest thanks to God for his life here on this earth and my gratitude to his family and friends for sharing him with us.  ~Daniel Davis

Back to main Tribute Page.

NOTE: If you would like to post a comment on this Tribute page, please email Melissa at mpearson@seminary.edu.