Thomas Gumbleton, a revered Catholic bishop in Detroit known for his unwavering advocacy for peace, social justice, and human rights, passed away at the age of 94. His death was confirmed by the Archdiocese of Detroit, where he served as a clergyman for over five decades. The cause of his passing was not disclosed.
Bishop Gumbleton was hailed as a devoted servant of the Archdiocese of Detroit, cherished by both his fellow priests and the laity for his integrity and commitment to the communities he served, remarked Archbishop Allen Vigneron.
Gumbleton rose to national prominence in the 1960s for his vocal opposition to the U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War. He played a pivotal role in founding Pax Christi USA, a Catholic peace movement, and staunchly condemned the war as 'gravely immoral.' His stance on the conflict drew criticism and hate mail, but he remained steadfast in his beliefs.
Throughout his life, Gumbleton actively spoke out against war and violence, advocating for peace and justice in various conflict zones worldwide. His activism often led to his arrest at protests, including a notable incident in 1996 while supporting striking newspaper workers in Detroit.
After retiring from active ministry in 2006, Gumbleton continued to champion social causes. He publicly supported legislation to aid sexual abuse victims and stood in solidarity with LGBTQ+ youth, denouncing the discrimination they faced.
Known for his impassioned sermons, Gumbleton's messages were regularly featured in the National Catholic Reporter's column, 'The Peace Pulpit.' In his writings and speeches, he urged individuals to actively engage in defending democracy, supporting marginalized communities, and advocating for causes they believed in.
Thomas Gumbleton's legacy as a tireless advocate for peace and justice will continue to inspire generations to come, reminding us of the importance of standing up for what is right and just in the world.
