Dr. Albert Mohler has reassured supporters that recent health episodes witnessed during public appearances are not life-threatening, while candidly acknowledging the ongoing physical challenges he faces as a result of complications from previous medical issues and surgeries.
In a video shared on social media, the president of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary addressed growing concern after several public incidents in which he appeared visibly distressed while speaking.
"This is an unusual video and not one I really planned to release," Mohler said. "I appreciate how many people have reached out just to ask if I'm okay."
The prominent theologian explained that on multiple occasions he has experienced episodes that force him to pause during speaking engagements before eventually recovering and continuing his presentation.
"It's because in a recent public event, and indeed in more than one, I must tell you, I've had a certain episode which has caused me to pause, and clearly I'm in distress, and the episode passes, and I'm able to resume what I'm doing," he said.
Mohler emphasized that he wanted to be transparent about his condition because of the public nature of his ministry responsibilities.
"I just want you to know what's going on here. I am trying to live this out as honestly as I can and, unfortunately in one sense, publicly, as is necessary," he said.
Reflecting on his medical history, Mohler noted that he has faced several significant health challenges throughout his life, including a battle with flesh-eating bacteria, two separate pulmonary embolisms, and major surgeries.
"The Lord's been very gracious to me," he said. "In my lifetime, I have had some real challenges. I've had the flesh-eating bacteria, I've had two different incidents with pulmonary emboli, and I've had some very significant surgery."
According to Mohler, the episodes that have recently concerned observers are related to complications stemming from those surgeries rather than a new or life-threatening condition.
"To be honest, it's complications after those surgeries that is causing these episodes," he explained.
While describing the episodes as "very unpleasant" and "embarrassing," Mohler stressed that they are manageable and do not pose a serious threat to his health.
The seminary president revealed that he has been open about the issue with students, trustees, faculty members, pastors, and ministry colleagues for some time. In August 2024, he informed students during a chapel service that such incidents might occasionally occur.
"I've been very, very clear with the governing board here, the board of trustees, and others, and faculty," he said. "Just understand one of these episodes might happen."
"And if they do, don't be alarmed. I'll be back with you, and Lord willing, be able to resume where I was."
Mohler said the experience has reminded him of God's sovereignty and has become part of his personal testimony and spiritual growth.
"I have to believe that God, who is sovereign, means this for my sanctification, and just as a part of my witness to what the Lord is doing in my life," he said.
He also expressed gratitude for advances in medicine and for the physicians who have helped care for him over the years.
"Let me just tell you, I count on them being helpful in the future," he said with a smile.
Now 66 and approaching his 67th birthday, Mohler concluded his update with a reflection on aging and stewardship.
"I can tell you here's something I've discovered, at age 66, it just doesn't happen that things get suddenly better physically," he said. "That's just not what happens. It's a very different story. And I just want to tell you, I want to be a good steward of this responsibility."
Mohler remains active in ministry and leadership and is expected to play a prominent role at next week's Southern Baptist Convention Annual Meeting in Orlando, Florida. During the gathering, he is expected to propose a constitutional amendment intended to clarify the roles of women in preaching and church leadership within SBC churches.
Despite the health challenges, Mohler expressed confidence in his ability to continue serving and thanked supporters for their prayers and concern.
"I'm very thankful my life has been preserved," he said. "I'm very thankful for your concern."
