The guest preacher at Brownson Memorial Presbyterian Church, 330 May Street in Southern Pines Sunday, Sept. 13, is Dr. Brian K. Blount, president and professor of New Testament at Union Theological Seminary with campuses in Richmond, Va., and in Charlotte.

Blount will preach at both the 8:45 and 11:10 a.m. services, and will also speak to the adult church school classes in the fellowship hall at 10 a.m.

Blount's appearance at Brownson is the first in this season's noteworthy Bill Jones Series. Established by the estate of a late member of the church, as a generous endowment to support special events, the series enables Brownson to draw outstanding lecturers and preachers each year.

Katie Morris, a member of the series committee, commented recently, "Brian is one of the best minds working in theological education today. In addition, he has the talent to convey his thoughts in a really compelling way -- one that grabs the imagination of the regular person. We are so lucky to have a chance to hear him here in Southern Pines."

Blount was called to his present position in March 2007, after serving for 15 years as professor of New Testament Interpretation at Princeton Theological Seminary. He was the pastor of the Carver Memorial Presbyterian Church in Newport News, Va., for six years. A master of divinity graduate of Princeton Seminary, he obtained his bachelor's degree from the College of William and Mary, and his doctorate from the Candler School of Theology at Emory University.

The first African American to receive membership in William and Mary's Alpha Chapter of the Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society, Blount was also awarded the Emory University Graduate Division of Religion Distinguished Alumnus Award in 2004. Recognized as an accomplished biblical scholar, he is the author, co-author, editor or associate editor of 11 books.

"We are thrilled to share a man of Dr. Blount's credentials and character with our community," says Dr. Grady Perryman, pastor of Brownson. "He is an outstanding preacher and has a passion for developing Christian leaders and revitalizing the church."