Resquiescat in Pacem: Bruce Manning Metzger (1914-2007)

Dr. Bruce Manning Metzger, New Testament professor emeritus at Princeton Theological Seminary and quite probably the greatest critic and translator of the New Testament in the twentieth century, died February 13, 2007, at his home in Princeton at the age of 93. He was born in Middletown, Pennsylvania in 1914 and entered Princeton Seminary in 1938. He was named the George L. Collord Professor of New Testament Language and Literature in 1964. He retired in 1984 and was named professor emeritus.

Dr. Metzger is most well known for his involvement in translation as Chair of the Committee on Translation of the American Bible Society 1964-70, and as Chair of the Committee of Translators for the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible 1977-90. The result of this committee, the NRSV, can be principally attributed to Dr. Metzger's tireless efforts. Throughout the translation process, he was also guided by ecumenical interests. He presented the Catholic edition of the NRSV to Pope John Paul II in 1993, and an expanded edition to His All Holiness Demetrios I in 1976.

There will be a memorial service to give thanks for Bruce Metzger's life on Tuesday, 20th February at 2.00pm in Nassau Presbyterian Church. His love for students, his scholarly mind, and his Christian humility will be greatly missed.