King’s Hosts 2017 Parents Weekend

On September 29-30, The King’s College hosted 174 attendees for Parents Weekend 2017. Each
year Parents Weekend provides an opportunity for parents and siblings to receive a taste of
student life in the City, and for students to host their families in their new home. By the end of
September, students have already experienced a solid month of classes, attended Fall Retreat,
taken part in the House Drama Competition, and settled into life with their House.
On Friday night King’s hosted a welcome reception and a guest lecture, and on Saturday
parents attended faculty lectures, campus tours, and the 4th Annual High Tea Luncheon, with an
address by President Gregory Alan Thornbury. On Sunday parents could attend church with their
students and enjoy a free day in the City.

On Friday night, King’s hosted Dr. William J. Abraham, Albert Cook Outler Professor of
Wesley Studies at Southern Methodist University’s Perkins School of Theology. Dr. Abraham, a
theologian, philosopher, and United Methodist pastor from Northern Ireland, gave a lecture
entitled “Speak of the Devil” to a packed room of 161 students, parents, faculty, and staff.
“The Friday night lecture was a thoughtful and challenging new feature,” said Bustard.
Professor David Talcott, assistant professor of philosophy, said the talk was “very engaging.” Dr.
Abraham made some very interesting observations about the reality of demonic spirits and the
importance of the church today not ignoring that spiritual reality. He made the case in a very
measured yet challenging way.”

“The weekend was run smoothly and everyone seemed to really enjoy themselves,” said
Ned Bustard, a member of the Parents Advisory Council from Lancaster, Penn. “It was a joy as
always to return to the college and see old friends and meet new parents.”