FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 25, 2001 CONTACT: Lisa Lacher, (515) 271-3119 LEADING THEOLOGIAN TO SPEAK AT DRAKE NOV. 5 Marcus Borg, one of America's leading theologians and the Hundere distinguished professor of religion at Oregon State University, will present a lecture titled "Taking the Bible Seriously, But Not Literally" at Drake University. The lecture, which is free and open to the public, will begin at 7 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 5, in Sheslow Auditorium in Old Main, 25th Street and University Avenue. Described by The New York Times as "a leading figure among the new generation of Jesus scholars," Borg is the author of 11 books. His titles include "Meeting Jesus Again for the First Time," the single best-selling book by a contemporary Jesus scholar; and "Reading the Bible Again for the First Time," one of the 10 best-selling books on religion. He also is the author of "The God We Never Knew" and "The Meaning of Jesus: Two Visions." Borg has appeared on NBC's "Today Show," PBS's "Newshour," ABC's "Prime Time" and NPR's "Fresh Air." He also has lectured widely overseas and throughout North America, including the Chautauqua and Smithsonian Institutions. Borg received his B.A. from Concordia College, Minn., his Master of Divinity from Union Theological Seminary, N.Y., and his Ph.D. in theology from Oxford University. "Taking the Bible Seriously, But Not Literally" is sponsored by the Drake University Department of Religion and Philosophy. The event will be followed by a reception and book signing in Levitt Hall in Old Main. For more information, e-mail Jon Torgerson at jon.torgerson@drake.edu.