Dr. Lloyd John Ogilvie (1930–2019) was an American Presbyterian minister, author, broadcaster, and the 61st Chaplain of the United States Senate (1995–2003). Before his election to the Senate chaplaincy, he served 23 years as Senior Pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Hollywood (1972–1995). He authored 50+ books and later inspired the creation of the Lloyd John Ogilvie Institute of Preaching at Fuller Theological Seminary. In 1996, Baylor University named him among the “Twelve Most Effective Preachers in the English-Speaking World.”
Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lloyd John Ogilvie |
| Born | September 2, 1930 — Kenosha, Wisconsin, USA |
| Died | June 5, 2019 (age 88) |
| Education | Lake Forest College (B.A., 1952); Garrett Theological Seminary (Th.M., 1957); Postgraduate studies, New College, University of Edinburgh |
| Major Roles | Senior Pastor, First Presbyterian Church of Hollywood (1972–1995); U.S. Senate Chaplain (1995–2003) |
| Broadcasting | Let God Love You (national TV & radio) |
| Books | 50+ titles (devotionals, prayer, biblical studies) |
| Recognition | Baylor University’s “Twelve Most Effective Preachers” (1996) |
| Family | Married Mary Jane Jenkins (1951–2003); later married Doris Kaiser Sumner (2005–2019); three children |
Early Life & Education
Raised in Kenosha, Wisconsin, Ogilvie developed early gifts in communication and leadership. He sensed a call to ministry during his years at Lake Forest College and pursued theological training at Garrett Theological Seminary. Postgraduate study at New College, University of Edinburgh deepened his lifelong passion for preaching.
Pastoral Ministry
Ogilvie pastored congregations in Illinois and Pennsylvania before accepting the call to First Presbyterian Church of Hollywood in 1972. Over two decades, the church became known for expository preaching, evangelism, discipleship, and community engagement. His pastoral style combined biblical depth with accessible, practical application.
National Broadcasting: Let God Love You
For years, Ogilvie’s preaching reached a national audience through the syndicated TV and radio program Let God Love You. The broadcast emphasized God’s grace, prayer, and turning “life’s struggles into stepping stones,” extending his shepherding beyond the local church.
Chaplain of the United States Senate (1995–2003)
Elected in 1995, Ogilvie opened the Senate in prayer, led Bible studies and prayer groups, and offered confidential, nonpartisan pastoral care to senators, staff, and families. He provided spiritual leadership through significant national moments, including the aftermath of September 11, 2001.
Books & Editorial Work
Ogilvie authored more than 50 books, including devotionals and works on prayer and Christian living. Representative titles include:
- God’s Best for My Life
- Quiet Moments with God
- Conversation with God
- Facing the Future Without Fear
- Lord of the Impossible
He also served as general editor of The Communicator’s Commentary (later issued as The Preacher’s Commentary), widely used by pastors and teachers.
The Lloyd John Ogilvie Institute of Preaching
Established at Fuller Theological Seminary (2006), the Institute strengthens biblical preaching and pastoral formation. Through cohorts such as Micah Groups, it equips leaders for spiritually grounded, justice-minded ministry—continuing Ogilvie’s vision of preaching that is both faithful and transformative.
Personal Life
Ogilvie was married to Mary Jane Jenkins for 52 years until her passing in 2003; in 2005 he married Doris Kaiser Sumner. He is survived by three children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Legacy
Dr. Ogilvie is remembered for eloquent, Christ-centered preaching, pastoral compassion, nonpartisan public service, and a lifelong commitment to forming preachers. His writings and the ongoing work of the Ogilvie Institute continue to shape churches and leaders around the world.
FAQs
1) Who was Lloyd John Ogilvie?
A Presbyterian minister, author, and broadcaster who served as the 61st Chaplain of the U.S. Senate (1995–2003) and Senior Pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Hollywood (1972–1995).
2) What is he best known for?
His Senate chaplaincy, long pastorate at Hollywood Presbyterian, national broadcast Let God Love You, and authorship of 50+ books.
3) Why is Baylor University’s 1996 recognition important?
Baylor named him among the “Twelve Most Effective Preachers in the English-Speaking World,” highlighting his broad homiletical influence.
4) What did the Senate chaplain do under Ogilvie?
Opened daily sessions in prayer, led studies and prayer groups, and provided confidential, nonpartisan pastoral care to senators, staff, and families.
5) What are representative books by Ogilvie?
God’s Best for My Life, Quiet Moments with God, Conversation with God, Facing the Future Without Fear, Lord of the Impossible.
6) What is the Ogilvie Institute of Preaching?
A Fuller Seminary institute (founded 2006) dedicated to strengthening biblical preaching and pastoral leadership; it runs initiatives like Micah Groups.
7) When did he live?
September 2, 1930 – June 5, 2019.
8) Did he edit a commentary series?
Yes—he served as general editor of The Communicator’s Commentary (later The Preacher’s Commentary).
