Bishop John Shelby Spong was an American Episcopal bishop and theologian known for his progressive views on Christianity. Born in 1931, he served as the Bishop of Newark from 1979 to 2000 and became a prominent advocate for reform within the Episcopal Church. Spong challenged traditional beliefs, emphasizing the need for a more inclusive and modern interpretation of the Bible. Throughout his career, Spong authored several books, including "Why Christianity Must Change or Die," where he argued for a rethinking of core Christian doctrines. He was a vocal supporter of issues such as LGBTQ+ rights and interfaith dialogue, aiming to make Christianity more relevant in contemporary society.