The Christian community mourns the loss of Richard Wilke, a visionary bishop of The United Methodist Church, who passed away at 94. His impactful creations and theological insights shaped religious study for millions.

According to the Christian Post, Richard Wilke's death marks an end to his influential service in Christian education and church leadership.

Richard Wilke died surrounded by his loved ones on Easter Sunday in Winfield, Kansas. He was 94 years old. His passing was confirmed by the Richard and Julia Wilke Institute for Discipleship at Southwestern College, an institution deeply connected with his legacy.

Wilke, born in 1930 in El Dorado, Kansas, lived a life marked by dedication to faith and education. He pursued higher education at Southern Methodist University, where he met his wife, Julia Kitchens. The couple married in 1953, establishing a partnership that would later produce significant contributions to religious studies and education.

An Esteemed Educator's Journey from Student to Bishop

After completing his bachelor's degree in history in 1952, Wilke attended Yale University to earn a master of Divinity, graduating with top honors in 1955. His academic journey didn't stop there; he furthered his theological education with a second master's in divinity from Dubuque Theological Seminary in 1972.

Wilke's calling led him to pastoral and later, episcopal leadership within The United Methodist Church. He was elected as a bishop in 1984, where he served the Arkansas area. His leadership was characterized by a deep commitment to accessible religious education and community involvement.

In 1986, he published a significant book, "And Are We Yet Alive?: The Future of the United Methodist Church," which addressed pressing issues facing the church and became a bestseller.

Revolutionizing Bible Study through Innovation and Inclusion

In the 1980s, alongside his wife Julia, Bishop Wilke co-developed the Disciple Bible Study series. This innovative program offered a comprehensive 34-week course that has since educated approximately 3 million participants globally. The series is known for its methodical study of the Bible and the historical and cultural insights it provides.

Through lectures including diverse clergy and scholars, the program emphasizes an engaging and informed approach to biblical studies. "As a pastor in the early 1980s, I became aware how isolated and lonely people were becoming and how ignorant they were of the Bible," Richard Wilke once reflected on the genesis of his program.

The bishop's empathy and understanding were not limited to his educational pursuits. In 2019, he publicly addressed the UMC's debates on same-sex marriage and the ordination of noncelibate homosexuals, advocating for a more inclusive church policy. He openly discussed his connection to the issue, mentioning his lesbian daughter and critiquing the traditionalist interpretation of biblical texts concerning homosexuality.

A Legacy Defined by Faith, Family, and Forward-Thinking

Wilke's wife, Julia, who was integral to his life's work and the development of the Disciple Bible Study series, preceded him in death in 2016. He is survived by four children, nine grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren, who continue to honor his legacy.

Retired Bishop Janice Riggle Huie spoke highly of Wilke, noting, "He understood how important it was to teach the Scriptures to people in little bitty churches stuck way back in the hills and hollers." This sentiment reflects the broad and lasting impact of Wilke's efforts to make religious education accessible and relevant.

The community will gather to remember and celebrate Richard Wilke's life and contributions at a funeral service scheduled for May 6 at the First United Methodist Church of Winfield. His life and work remain a significant influence in the discussions and developments within The United Methodist Church and beyond.