A List
10/12/09

Theologian Rev. Peter Gomes To Give Talk At St. Lawrence

CANTON - Harvard University minister and professor Peter J. Gomes will give a talk at St. Lawrence University on Wednesday, October 21, at 7:30 p.m. in the Eben Holden Center, titled "What Dare We Expect?" The lecture is the keynote event of Inauguration Weekend at the University, culminating in the installation of William L. Fox as St. Lawrence's 18th president.

It has been said that the job of president of a liberal arts college is an impossible assignment. While this may be true, Gomes will discuss the view that having no expectations could lead to getting just what one expects, as well as put forth the question of whether there is anything we can hope for in presidential leadership.

Gomes has served since 1970 in The Memorial Church, Harvard University, and since 1974, he has been the Plummer Professor of Christian Morals and Pusey Minister in the Memorial Church. Named Clergy of the Year in 1998 by Religion in American Life, Gomes is author of The Good Book: Reading the Bible with Mind and Heart; Sermons: Biblical Wisdom for Daily Living; The Backward Glance and the Forward Look; Gomes's Book of Good Graces: A Collection of Graces and Blessings; Strength for the Journey: Biblical Wisdom for Daily Living; and The Good Life: Truths That Last in Times of Need.

Following the lecture, Gomes will sign books.

The event is the Kathryn Fraser Mackay Memorial Lecture, established in memory of Kathryn Fraser Mackay '77 by her family, to honor her interests and spirit. Traditionally, coordination of the lectures alternates between the departments of philosophy and religious studies. It is also part of the Contemporary Issues Forum, bringing experts and participants in the making of news to campus throughout the academic year.

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