A much loved leader and elder statesman of the Swedish Baptist Union has died. Former General Secretary David Lagergren passed away on Saturday, May 4, at the age of 94 in Stockholm.

David Lagergren was born in the village Fröjel on the island of Gotland on March 31, 1919. He studied at the Swedish Baptist Seminary (Bethel Seminary) outside Stockholm and later at the Department of Theology of Uppsala University, where he was granted his Doctor of Theology Degree in 1970 after successfully defending his dissertation, "Mission and State in the Congo."

He continued his academic career for some time as an associate professor of mission studies.

From 1952–1956 Lagergren was a missionary in the Belgian Congo, then a teacher at his alma mater, Bethel Seminary, and between 1958–1971 he served as its rector.

Repeatedly elected General Secretary, Lagergren was head of the Swedish Baptist Union from 1972–1984.

For many years, he was deeply involved in the European Baptist Federation (EBF), and served a term as this international organization’s President. His talents were also put to use at the BWA (Baptist World Alliance) where he was Vice President. David Lagergren played a key part in the management of the BWA World Conference and Council Meetings held in Stockholm in 1975.

We remember David Lagergren for his vast knowledge, great faith and deep love. He was a warm-hearted man who earned a great deal of respect both within and outside of the Swedish Christian community. Today we extend our condolences to his wife Agda, their children and their extended families, as well as to his many friends at Norrmalm’s Baptist Congregation and the world at large.