Bishop David D. Daniels III, a distinguished scholar who dedicated his life to illuminating the rich contributions of African and Black Pentecostals to Christianity, has died. Bishop Daniels passed away on October 10 at 70 after a battle with cancer.
As a professor at McCormick Theological Seminary in Chicago, Bishop Daniels tirelessly championed the often-overlooked narratives of Black Christians, demonstrating their profound impact on the global church, according to a report by the Religion News Service. Daniels highlighted the work of figures like Mother Mary P. Patterson, who preserved the history of the Church of God in Christ (COGIC), and Sherry Sherrod DuPree, whose collection documented early COGIC publications.
Bishop Daniels’ passion extended beyond academia. He actively engaged in ecumenical dialogues, fostering understanding between Pentecostals and other Christian traditions. His leadership within COGIC, culminating in his consecration as bishop, underscored his commitment to serving the church he loved.
His scholarship challenged conventional narratives, revealing the crucial role of African Christians in shaping the Protestant Reformation and enriching Christian practice. Bishop Daniels’ passing leaves a void in the academic and faith communities, but his work will continue to inspire future generations.
Editor’s note: This article was written with the assistance of A.I.