Clergy are invited to a special luncheon with the lecturer following the Tuesday morning session.

The Perkins Lectures began in 1943 for the purpose of bringing renowned preachers, scholars, and authors to Wichita Falls for the benefit of the greater community and North Texas area. This is the 63rd year for the lectures.

Rev. Paul Goodrich, pastor of First UMC, Wichita Falls said, "Dr. Boyd was extremely well-received as lecturer eleven years ago and is remembered for his ‘spell-binding’ sermons."

Born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, Dr. Boyd was ordained in the Methodist Church in Ireland and has served churches in Ireland, Canada, and New York City. He has published four books: A Lover's Quarrel with the World; Permit me Voyage; Running to Paradise; and Corridors of Light.

Dr. Boyd is a graduate of Edgehill Theological College in Belfast and Belfast and Mc-Master University, Hamilton, Ontario, where he majored in philosophy and English. He has the Doctor of Divinity degree from Victoria College and the Doctor of Sacred Theology degree from Hastings College, UK. Additionally, he has the degree of Licentiate of Music from the University of Western Ontario, London, Canada.

The Perkins Lectureship was begun by J.J. and Lois Perkins and is supported by an endowment established by the Perkins-Prothro family. The Perkins Lectures have been one of the most significant events at First UMC since their former pastor, Rev. Paul E. Martin, conceived the idea. The Perkins family founded the lectureship at his encouragement.

The Perkins Lectures may be the nation's first lecture series established in a local church.

First UMC is located at 909 Tenth at Travis in downtown Wichita Falls. Audio-visual tapes, CD & DVDs of the 2008 lectures and many of the past lectures are available.

For more information, please call 940-766-4231 or visit Web-site: www.fumcwf.org.