The Reverend Canon John Peterson, distinguished biblical archaeologist and church diplomat, will be the Stern Lecturer on August 19 and 20 at St. Matthew’s Church, 1031 Bienveneda. Peterson’s thorough familiarity with the landscape of the Holy Land, remarkable scholarship and spiritual insight allow him to offer a new understanding of the Bible. In his first lecture, on Friday at 7:30 p.m., he will look at familiar passages from the Old and New Testaments and explore how archaeology and geography change the way we understand those texts. At 9 a.m. on Saturday, Peterson will examine the different theologies behind the synagogue and the Jerusalem Temple during the lifetime of Jesus, and the impact of those two institutions on Jesus’ ministry. On Saturday afternoon at 1 p.m., Peterson will focus on two issues: the church in Jerusalem and the role of the church in the Israeli-Palestinian peace process. He will explore efforts being made today in interfaith/interreligious dialogue and action. Not only a scholar but also a church diplomat, Peterson serves as the Canon for Global Justice and Reconciliation at Washington’s National Cathedral. He served as dean of St. George’s College in Jerusalem, and has led many pilgrimages through the Holy Land. The Elizabeth Naffziger Stern Memorial Fund, established in 1989, supports the Stern Lecture series. A resident of Santa Monica from 1952, Stern was an unstinting worker in the community and founder of Meals on Wheels of West Los Angeles. She was a lifelong member of the Episcopal Church, junior warden of the Parish of St. Matthew’s and a member of the Altar Guild. The lectures are free, but reservations are necessary by August 15 for the light luncheon that will be served Saturday. Call (310) 454-1358 or e-mail sternlecture@stmatthews.com.
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