Clinton Keeping Spiritual Advisers After Leaving Office

Tony Campolo: "It's a further indication of his desire to understand his life and behavior in spiritual terms."

BY: Adelle M. Banks

WASHINGTON, Jan. 5 (RNS) -- More than two years after starting to meet with his spiritual advisers, President Clinton has decided to continue the practice when his term ends.

The Rev. Tony Campolo, one of the three clerics who have met regularly with Clinton, said the president wants to keep the meetings going.

"He has indicated that he will continue this relationship," Campolo told Religion News Service on Friday. "He expects that, being relieved of the presidency, he will be able to give even more attention to ... these matters so he is looking for spiritual counsel especially as he defines the future of his life."

The Rev. J. Philip Wogaman, another spiritual adviser and senior minister at Foundry United Methodist Church in Washington, confirmed the president's plans.

"The three of us will have a continuing relationship with the president," he said after the three met with Clinton on Friday.

Campolo is encouraged that the meetings with the president will be ongoing.

"It's a further indication of his desire to understand his life and behavior in spiritual terms," he said.

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