Contact:
Regina Boone
Development and Public Relations
919-546-8269
For Immediate Release

Homiletics Course Incorporates Publication of 
President Emeritus Dr. Talbert O. Shaw
   
Raleigh, NC (December 17, 2003) –  The Shaw University Divinity School’s course offering in Homiletics entitled Homiletics: Theory and Practice is now incorporating the text of Shaw University President Emeritus, Dr. Talbert O. Shaw entitled East of Eden. This three hour basic course prepares students to convert text to sermons, analyze theories of context and structure in sermons, and explore hermeneutical, cultural, and theological questions.

Rev. Dr. Reginald Van Stephens, Professor of Homiletics, instructs this course. Dr. Stephens will also oversee the development of the Divinity School’s new concentration in Homiletics and will teach the courses required for that area of study. Dr. Stephens, who is the pastor of White Rock Baptist Church in Durham, holds a bachelor of science degree from Edward Waters College, a master of divinity degree from Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary, and a doctorate of ministry degree from United Theological Seminary.

Dr. Shaw was on campus in October during Shaw University’s Homecoming for a book signing.  His book has been quoted by Gardner C. Taylor, Pastor Emeritus of Concord Baptist Church in Brooklyn, NY as being, “…a probing, insightful volume of spiritual reflections…deft touch for the waywardness of our humanity redeemed by the determined love of God.”  

Additional copies of the book can be obtained from the Shaw University bookstore.  For more information, call 919-546-8530.

Dr. Shaw, who was president of Shaw University for more than 15 years, now lives in Boca Raton, FL, with his wife Marlene.

Shaw University, founded in 1865, is the oldest historically Black institution in the South.  Since 2003, the University has been under the leadership of President Clarence G. Newsome.  President Newsome’s leadership pursues the theme “Strides to Excellence: Only the Best!”