Christian Cyclopedia

(1836–1918). Cong. clergyman; author, hymnist; b. Pottsgrove, Pennsylvania; educ. Williams Coll., Williamstown, Massachusetts; pastor Brooklyn, New York, 1860, Morrisania, New York, 1861, North Adams, Massachusetts, 1866, Springfield, Massachusetts, 1874, Columbus, Ohio, 1882. Studied writings of F. W. Robertson* and H. Bushnell*; at North Adams began applying Christian principles to soc. problems; early apostle of the social* gospel; held that govt. should bring about soc. adjustments not by force or by endorsing an economic program, but by inspiring individuals with love of justice and the spirit of service; acknowledged the right of labor to organize; organized Christian League of Connecticut 1883; active in civic leagues; his poetry reveals mystical elements.

E. T. Thompson, “Washington Gladden and the development of the 'New Theology,' ” Changing Emphases in American Preaching (Philadelphia, 1943), pp. 137–180.