Runcie, Robert (1921-2000), was archbishop of Canterbury, in England, from January 1980 to 1991. Runcie won a high reputation for his work as Anglican chairman of the Anglican-Orthodox Joint Doctrinal Commission. He also became a broadcaster. He was the first archbishop of Canterbury to be directly appointed by the Church of England Crown Appointments Commission. Runcie was known for his liberal positions within the Anglican church, such as his support for the ordination of women. He also won praise for his ecumenical work with the Roman Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Churches.
Robert Alexander Kennedy Runcie was born on Oct. 2, 1921, in Liverpool of Scottish parents and attended a local council school in Crosby. He won a scholarship to Oxford. During World War II (1939-1945), he served with the Scots Guards. In 1945, he was awarded the Military Cross.
After graduating from Oxford, Runcie studied theology at Westcott House, Cambridge. He became a deacon in 1950 and was ordained a priest in 1951. Runcie became curate at Gosforth, Tyne and Wear. He later held academic positions, including the post of principal of Cuddesdon Theological College from 1960 to 1969. Runcie was bishop of St. Albans from 1970 to 1980, when he was consecrated archbishop of Canterbury. Runcie wrote a number of books, including Windows Unto God (1983), Seasons of the Spirit (1983), One Light for One World (1988), Authority in Crisis? An Anglican Response (1988), and The Unity We Seek (1989).
Runcie was a life peer and retained his seat in the House of Lords after his retirement as archbishop of Canterbury.
