Why Study Baptists?: A Festschrift to William J. Leonard

If festschrifts celebrate a person for their life’s work, few are more worthy of the honor than Bill J. Leonard. He is equal parts teacher, minister, and administrator, all with a style that is ＂uniquely Leonard.＂ The eleven essays in this volume are a testimony to Leonard’s call for integrity of thought and deed and explore topics ranging from race and spirituality to Appalachian religion, and religious freedom. If one detects a familiar ring, it is because those are broad themes that reflect Bill Leonard’s career. So, why should anyone study Baptists? The reasons vary from person to person, but one thing is certain: Bill Leonard has set a high standard. They are also a testimony to the effect one person can have on how you see the world around you. Contributors include Randall Balmer, Linda McKinnish Bridges, Edward R. Crowther, Pamela R. Durso, Keith Harper, Andrew Manis, Molly T. Marshall, Robert N. Nash Jr., Meredith Stone, Corey D.B. Walker, and C. Douglas Weaver.

Keith Harper is senior professor of Baptist Studies at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is the author of THE QUALITY OF MERCY and A MERE KENTUCKY OF A PLACE. C. Douglas Weaver is the Barbara Jo Beard Driskell Research Chair in Historical/Baptist Studies and department chair of Religion at Baylor University. His books include BAPTISTS AND THE HOLY SPIRIT, CLAYPOOL, and IN SEARCH OF THE NEW TESTAMENT CHURCH.