A Powell Davies

Arthur Powell Davies (1902-1957) was a minister and theologian born in England who later became a prominent figure in American Unitarianism. He served as the minister of All Souls Church in Washington, D.C., from 1944 until his passing. Davies gained national recognition for his liberal activism, advocating for civil rights for African Americans and women, and opposing nuclear proliferation and the tactics of McCarthyism.

Initially raised Methodist, Davies pursued theological studies in London before moving to the United States. He transitioned to Unitarianism in 1933 and became a vocal advocate for reform within the denomination and for Unitarian involvement in global issues. His writings, including "American Destiny," explored themes of individual freedom as a unifying force. Davies was instrumental in expanding Unitarian influence in the Washington D.C. area and used his considerable platform to champion liberal causes and engage with influential figures.

Arthur Powell Davies's theological journey led him from Methodism to Unitarianism, a path influenced by his exposure to Unitarian ideas in Portland, Maine. Upon becoming a Unitarian in 1933, he quickly became a proponent of reform and broader engagement within the denomination, advocating for Unitarian activism in addressing world affairs. His first book, "American Destiny" (1942), articulated a vision of American faith in individual freedom as a potential unifier for the world. This philosophical stance informed his later activism, where he championed causes such as civil rights and ethical stands against nuclear armament and governmental overreach during the McCarthy era. His influential pulpit at All Souls Church in Washington, D.C., provided a platform for these progressive views, attracting national attention and support from liberal circles.

As minister of All Souls Church, Unitarian in Washington, D.C., from 1944 until his death, A. Powell Davies transformed the congregation into a nationally recognized institution. He was a prolific writer, publishing theological works and sermon collections that contributed to his public profile. Davies's commitment extended beyond theological discourse; he actively engaged in social and political issues. He supported the Atomic Energy Act of 1946, critiqued the methods of the House Un-American Activities Committee, and was a staunch advocate for racial integration. His influence reached into the highest levels of government, with figures like Supreme Court Justice Hugo Black considering him a close friend, indicating the significant impact of his ideas within liberal political discourse.

Despite facing health challenges, including surgery in 1953 for thrombophlebitis, A. Powell Davies remained dedicated to his ministry and activism. He continued his demanding schedule, prioritizing his work even as he experienced discomfort. His life concluded on September 26, 1957, due to a fatal pulmonary embolism. His passing was marked by a memorial service attended by three sitting Supreme Court Justices, underscoring the respect and influence he commanded. His intellectual and archival legacy is preserved through papers held at Harvard Divinity School and Meadville Lombard Theological School, ensuring his contributions to theology and social justice continue to be studied.

“The religions of the creeds are obsolescent...the basis of their claims expired with yesterday.”

“It (liberalism) causes us to put our trust in the free exertions of our own minds instead of in the dogmas of the long established churches.”

“This ancient God of miracles and interventions... is really dead. There is no longer any kindness in letting anyone cling to such a fantasy. For if that is where we put our faith, our dependence, or reliance, we shall be wiped off the face of the earth.”

“There is no God in the sky. God is in the heart that loves the sky's blueness. There is no army of angels, no hosts of seraphim and no celestial hierarchy. All this is man's imaginings.”

“Let me tell you why I come to church. I come to church—and would whether I was a preacher or not—because I fall below my own standards and need to be constantly brought back to them. I am afraid of becoming selfish and indulgent, and my church—my church of the free spirit—brings me back to what I want to be. I could easily despair: doubt and dismay could overwhelm me. My church renews my courage and my hope. It is not enough that I should think about the world and its problems at the level of a newspaper report or magazine discussion. It could too soon become too low a level. I must have my conscience sharpened—sharpened until it goads me to the most thorough and responsible thinking of which I am capable. I must feel again the love I owe to others. I must not only hear about it but feel it. In church, I do. I am brought toward my best, in every way toward my best.”