As part of the Ancient Greece Symposium at Booth Library, a communication studies professor will speak about the Apostle Paul and his influence on Ancient Greece Wednesday.

The presentation titled “The Apostle Paul’s Influence on the Ancient Greeks” will begin at 11 a.m. in Room 4440 at Booth.

Andrew Robinson, a communication studies professor and an ordained minister, said he is a student of the Bible, which is why his interest in Ancient Greece stems from the biblical aspects of it and how it is presented in the Bible, particularly through Paul.

“The Apostle Paul was one of the first people to attempt to reach people outside his own culture and ethnicity with the Christian message,” Robinson said. “He was paramount during his life in influencing the Greeks in Corinth, Athens, Thessalonica and Philippi.”

The presentation will focus on Paul and his journey to Greece as he talked to the people throughout the area, experienced the culture and led the people toward God.

Robinson said he liked the subject because of how Paul got through the trials and tribulations presented to him and his compassion.

“My favorite part of the subject is the passionate appeals by Paul and his genuine care for the people he tried to reach with his message,” Robinson said.

Robinson said within his presentation, he plans to convey how Paul lived his life, what happened and how it connects to Ancient Greece.

“People who attend will learn how one man, Paul, was dedicated and passionate about his faith, persuaded a highly intellectual and diverse society to his position,” Robinson said.

Following Robinson’s formal presentation, he will offer a question and answer period for audience members to discuss what he has spoken about and gain more information.

Robinson’s presentation is only one of the symposiums that day.

Todd Bruns, the institutional repository librarian at Booth, will present “Ancient Greek Technology,” and Kathy Rhodes, a hospitality instructor of family and consumer sciences, will present “Laughter, Food and Curiosity in Greece” at 10 a.m. before Robinson’s presentation.

Rhodes said in an email that she will talk about the foods of Ancient Greece and the possibility of her being a descendant of royalty.

“I hope the students understand the importance of the origin of foods,” Rhodes said. “I would like them to learn about the Greek culture. Food is a very good way to find out about a culture.”

She will be talking about Rhodes Island in Greece and its history.

“I want to know if I am married to royalty or not,” Rhodes said.

According to the symposium booklet, Bruns will be talking about inventions of Ancient Greece.

All of the presentations will take place in Room 4440 of Booth Library.

Amy Wywialowski can be reached at 581-2812 or alwywialowski@eiu.edu

Samantha McDaniel contributed to this article.