The Roman Empire lasted for approximately one thousand years. Among all the provincial governors sent by Rome to manage its contentious territories, only one remains significant today: Pontius Pilate. While many people know of his actions, few have a clear understanding of who this Roman bureaucrat was as an individual. Interestingly, opinions about Pilate are deeply divided within the contemporary Christian community. In some Eastern churches, both Pilate and his wife are honored as saints, while in the West, few Christians would describe him in such terms. Ironically, it was not the crucifixion of Jesus that led to Pilate’s downfall; rather, it was his brutal treatment of unarmed Samaritan religious pilgrims that sparked widespread outrage and led to calls for his replacement.

Join us on Friday, July 25, for a lively and informative lecture. Our guest speaker, Ms. Weber, will clarify who Pontius Pilate was and why he is often regarded as a misunderstood and controversial historical figure. Ms. Weber is a senior administrator at the Free Library of Philadelphia. She is a devout Christian, a serious student of religion, and currently a PhD candidate.