Remembering Dr. William Brownson

brownson header

Dr. Brownson’s efforts for global evangelism and his heart of Christlike love continue to touch lives today. 

President Emeritus of Words of Hope, Dr. William Brownson, died to this life on April 1, 2022 at the age of 93. 

Words of Hope President Jon Opgenorth says: “Words of Hope is saddened at the passing of Dr. Brownson. Our deepest sympathies are with the family. We offer our great thanks to God for using this incredible servant to share the gospel around the world. My times of prayer with him are a treasured memory I will never forget.”

Dr. Brownson served as the pastor in two Reformed Church in America congregations early in his career, the first in Lodi, NJ, the second in Roseland, IL. In 1964 he became Professor of Preaching at Western Theological Seminary

In 1972 Dr. Brownson became the President and Broadcast Minister for Words of Hope, in which capacity he served for 22 years. He preached weekly on the Words of Hope radio program, reaching listeners across the United States and Canada. He was instrumental in shaping the trajectory of Words of Hope’s ministry and vision. He oversaw the growth and expansion of much of Words of Hope’s international ministry, helping to begin some of the language outreach programs that are still areas of focus today.  Dr. Brownson wanted all people to have the opportunity to hear about Christ in their own language, and he experienced great joy as he shared the gospel broadly, and also personally. He traveled extensively to Words of Hope ministry fields, building up indigenous Christian leaders and showing God’s love to all he met. 

Dr. Brownson authored many books, articles, and devotionals. Click here to read his writing online or to request copies of books that are still in print.

Related Posts

Devotionals

Fiery Trials

Read: 1 Peter 4:12-19 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial. (v. 12) When I first got my driver’s license, my husband—then fiancé—taught me how to drive in

This entry is part 8 of 8 in the series Finding Purpose in Suffering
Featured Field

Nepal

Nepal is a country of breathtaking mountains and vibrant culture. But it is also a place of deep spiritual need. Less than 2% of the population identifies as Christian, and believers often face social pressure, discrimination, and legal restrictions on sharing their faith. But God is opening doors! 

June 22

Pray for the continued growth of strong, supportive relationships between our field leaders. Thank God for the work he has done in bringing the Words of Hope community together.

Get Updates

Our quarterly email includes inspiring testimonies, prayer requests, and ways to get involved.

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.