Charles Colson (1931-2012) was an American attorney, author, and evangelical Christian leader, widely known for his significant role in the Watergate scandal and subsequent transformation into a prominent religious figure.
Colson first gained national attention as Special Counsel to President Richard Nixon from 1969 to 1973. However, his reputation became tarnished due to his involvement in the Watergate scandal, particularly the infamous Watergate break-in. In 1974, Colson pleaded guilty to obstruction of justice in connection with the Watergate affair and was subsequently sentenced to prison.
During his time incarcerated, Charles Colson experienced a profound spiritual transformation. His newfound faith and commitment to Christianity led him to establish Prison Fellowship, an influential international ministry dedicated to providing spiritual and practical support to inmates, ex-convicts, and their families. Colson's commitment to criminal justice reform and his focus on prisoner rehabilitation helped reshape public discourse on the penal system.
As an author and public speaker, Colson was a staunch advocate for combining faith and politics, and he championed a Christian worldview in various social and political issues. His numerous books, such as "Loving God," "How Now Shall We Live?" and "Born Again," had a significant impact on the evangelical Christian community.
In recognition of his contributions to society, Charles Colson received numerous honors and awards, including the Templeton Prize for Progress in Religion in 1993. His life serves as a testament to the transformative power of faith, and his valuable work in prison ministry and criminal justice reform continues to influence and inspire people worldwide.
