Hebrew Union College Expert to Speak on Medieval Depictions of the Crucifixion
PHILADELPHIA (March 5, 2009) – Prominent New Testament scholar Rabbi Michael Cook, Ph.D., will deliver a lecture entitled "Judaism, Christianity, and the Crucifixion: Coexistence vs. Anti-Semitism on Medieval Parchment" at the Erivan K. Haub Executive Center at Saint Joseph's University on Thursday, March 19, from 7:30-9 p.m. The multimedia presentation will focus on how art depicting the crucifixion has shaped Christian attitudes toward Judaism throughout history through the examination of symbols.
The event is sponsored by the Institute for Jewish-Catholic Relations, and will further its mission of deepening understanding between the two faith traditions.
"Cook is among the growing number of Jewish specialists in New Testament studies," says Institute Director Philip A. Cunningham, Ph.D. "He has a special concern for helping Jews understand the context and perspectives of these writings that are defining for Christians."
The Institute for Jewish-Catholic Relations welcomes Cook from Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in Cincinnati, where he holds the Sol and Arlene Bronstein Professorship in Judeo-Christian Studies. He is believed to be the only rabbi in the United States with a professorial chair in New Testament studies.
For more information on this event, contact Cunningham at 610-660-1863 or at pcunning@sju.edu. For more information about the Institute for Jewish-Catholic Relations, visit www.sju.edu/ijcr
Background: Founded by the Society of Jesus in 1851, Saint Joseph's University advances the professional and personal ambitions of men and women by providing a demanding, yet supportive, educational experience. One of only 129 schools with a Phi Beta Kappa chapter and AACSB business school accreditation, Saint Joseph's is home to 4,500 full-time undergraduates and 3,200 graduate, part-time and doctoral students. Steeped in the 450-year Jesuit tradition of scholarship and service, Saint Joseph's was named to the 2008 President's Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll for General Community Service. The University strives to be recognized as the preeminent Catholic comprehensive university in the Northeast.
-30-
Contact: Patricia Allen, Associate Director of University Communications, 610-660-3240, patricia.allen@sju.edu
