This comprehensive biography of William Sheppard, the first African American Presbyterian missionary, presents the remarkable story of how an African American born in the South during the era of slavery emerged as one of the most distinguished Presbyterian leaders in American history. The book chronicles Sheppard’s journey to the Congo, details his efforts to challenge human rights violations, and describes his impact on the areas of religion, human rights, education, and art.
William E. Phipps is an ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). He was formerly Professor of Bible at Peace College in Raleigh, North Carolina, and the former Chair of the Philosophy Department at Davis and Elkins College in Elkins, West Virginia.