J. RODMAN WILLIAMS (1918–2008), known by many as the father of modern Renewal Theology, had a long and vibrant ministry as a Presbyterian minister and scholar. He served variously as a pastor, military chaplain, seminary professor, international speaker, theologian, and author. Yet, it was his experiences and efforts as a key figure in the Charismatic Movement of the 1960s and beyond that gave him the stature of the movement’s most prominent theologian and one of its key leaders.
Drawing from research in educational and denominational archives, interviews with family and friends, and the writings and personal papers of Williams, author Mark Jumper presents an overview of the life and ministry of a remarkable and dedicated Christian scholar. He presents the personal, professional, and spiritual journey of a remarkable Christian servant with insightful clarity and understanding..
About the Author:
Mark A. Jumper, Ph.D. is Associate Professor and Director of Chaplaincy and Military Affairs Regent University School of Divinity. He is a third-generation Presbyterian minister. Prior to coming to his present position, he served as a pastor and as a U.S. Navy chaplain for twenty-four years.
He earned the Ph.D. in Humanities at Salve Regina University in Newport, Rhode Island, writing a dissertation on the just war tradition, specifically researching the concept of justice after war. He earned an M.Div. at Columbia Theological Seminary in Decatur, Georgia, and a B.A. in History at Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He also studied at the Naval War College, the University of Connecticut, the University of Oklahoma, Southeast Missouri State University, and the University of Missouri. He is the author of numerous articles and encyclopedia entries and co-editor of The Holy Spirit and the Reformation Legacy.
Jumper has served as Endorser for Chaplains for the Evangelical Presbyterian Church (EPC) and as National Secretary for the Military Chaplains Association. He also served as moderator of the EPC presbyteries of Mid-America and Florida. He was the first pastor of Diamondhead Community Church (PCUS), Mississippi, and second pastor of Hope EPC in Grayslake, Illinois. He and his wife, Ginger, have seven children.
