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Cover of Princeton Seminary in American Religion and Culture

Princeton Seminary in American Religion and Culture

  • History & Biography
  • Publisher: Eerdmans
  • Published: 2012

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Publisher's Description

The story of Princeton Theological Seminary, the Presbyterian Church's first seminary in America, begins in 1812, shortly after the United States had entered into its second war against Great Britain. Princeton went on to become a model of American theological education, setting the standard for subsequent seminaries and other religious higher education institutions. Princeton's story is uniquely intertwined with American religious and cultural history, the history of theological education, the Presbyterian church, and conceptions of ministry in general. Thus, this volume will interest not only those with links to Princeton but also historians of religion, Presbyterians, leaders within seminaries and Christian colleges, and all who are interested in the history of Christian thought in America.


Endorsements (7)

“Masterful! James Moorhead's bicentennial history offers both a wide-angle view of the place of Princeton Seminary in American culture and a zoom lens focusing on remarkable professors and presidents. Beginning with the founders' dual commitment to learning and piety, Moorhead deftly narrates Princeton's response to two centuries of theology and culture, illumined in different eras and through both conflict and consensus. Delightfully, alumni and friends will experience the rekindling of many memories, as well as the surprise of new stories and insights, all rendered in clear and compelling prose.”

Ronald C. White Jr.

“One of America's most influential theological institutions, Princeton Seminary deserves an updated, readable, reliable, and engaging history. James Moorhead has given us just that. . . . This book provides more than the story of a single seminary; it offers a window into mainstream American Protestantism from the early nation to the present.”

Mark Valeri

“Princeton Theological Seminary has been one of America's leading theological centers, and its saga involves many strong personalities and impressive thinkers. James Moorhead has told this important story well and provides much of interest that any reader will learn from.”

George Marsden

“James Moorhead's deep learning, sharp analytical eye, and humane understanding have yielded a scintillating intellectual biography of Princeton Seminary. He places the lives and ideas that shaped the two hundred years of this remarkable institution within the context of the wider religious and cultural forces with which it has been sometimes in dialogue, sometimes in conflict. This is institutional history of the very best kind.”

Richard Carwardine

“James Moorhead is the ideal chronicler of this institution that has played so formative a role in the intellectual and spiritual life of the United States. His smart, clear, and graceful narrative deserves a wide audience among students of history, theology, and education.”

Christine Leigh Heyrman

“James Moorhead relates the richly human story of Princeton Seminary's two hundred years of intellectual and spiritual challenge, change, and perseverance. Historians, clergy, seminarians, and general readers will all welcome this fascinating and accessible account.”

Daniel Walker Howe

“The life of Princeton Theological Seminary spans a momentous two centuries in the history of the United States and a period just as momentous for Reformed faith in America and abroad. James Moorhead's excellently researched study brings that history to life. . . . This fine book deserves a wide readership.”

Mark A. Noll

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