RICHMOND, Va. – Since its founding in 1812, Union Presbyterian Seminary has been witness to seminal moments in America’s history. From the Civil War where enrollment dropped to one student, to welcoming African American students and faculty during segregation, to admitting women to degree programs, William B. Sweetser, Jr.’s eagerly awaited “A Copious Fountain: A History of Union Presbyterian Seminary, 1812-2012” tells the story of the theological school’s first 200 years.
Combining research, photographs, and primary source documents, Sweetser (M.Div.’89; Th.M.’90; Ph.D.’00), adjunct professor of church history at Union, celebrates the enduring influence of the seminary in the Church and beyond.
“Sweetser has captured the impactful, yet complex, history of Union, ” said President Brian K. Blount. “With extensive research, grace, and candor, Sweetser has illustrated the seminary’s persistent legacy in equipping educators and ministers for the times and places in which the Church has found itself.”
As the first institution of its kind in the South, Union created a standard for theological education across denominational affiliations. This systematic history gives cultural and historical context to the school from its founding in 1812 in Farmville, Virginia, through its bicentennial year.
“A Copious Fountain” will publish in March 2016. The book is available for pre-order through December 31, 2015, and customers may receive a 50 percent discount by using promo code: WF15.
by Mike Frontiero, Union Seminary
