James G. K. (James Gore King) McClure

Born on November 24, 1848, James Gore King McClure was an American Presbyterian minister, author, and educator. He studied at Yale, where he was active enough in college life to be remembered on the university baseball team, and he went on to become a prominent religious leader in the Midwest.

McClure is especially associated with the First Presbyterian Church of Lake Forest, where he served for many years, and with two major institutions of higher learning: Lake Forest College and later McCormick Theological Seminary, where he served as president. His writing often aimed at everyday Christian readers, with books such as The Man Who Wanted to Help, The Great Appeal, and The Growing Pastor showing his interest in practical faith, ministry, and service.

He died on January 18, 1932. Today he is remembered not only as a minister and teacher, but also as a clear, approachable religious writer whose work tried to connect belief with useful action.