Ancient Civilizations: Early Christianity

Fort Bend County Libraries’ “Ancient Civilizations” continues this summer with an educational program on Early Christianity on Saturday, August 5, from 2:00 to 4:00 pm, in the Meeting Room of the Cinco Ranch Branch Library, located at 2620 Commercial Center Blvd in Katy.

Architecture professor Sheba Akhtar will talk about the origins of Christianity, beginning with the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, his baptism by John the Baptist, and his crucifixion in Jerusalem. Hear about the experiences of the Apostles during the reformation of Judaism, the conversion of the Apostle Paul and Christianity for gentiles, and the creation of the New Testament in the Christian Bible.

Akhtar will also talk about Christian persecution by the Romans, the conversion of Constantine the Great, and the legalization of Christianity. She will conclude by sharing history on the Hagia Sophia in Constantinople/Istanbul, and the Basilica of San Vitale in Ravenna, Italy.

Akhtar received her Master of Architecture degree from the University of Pennsylvania and taught art and architecture history for 20 years. She is the author of “Of Colour and Form” and numerous articles on art and architecture.