news-category: Faculty

Gardner-Webb Divinity School Professor Dr. Steve Harmon Featured on Spectrum Local News

Dr. Steve Harmon and the Pope

Harmon Shares About Meeting Pope Francis in 2022

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—As thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square this week to pray for Pope Francis, Gardner-Webb Professor of historical theology Dr. Steve Harmon remembered meeting the Pope in 2022 and joined the world in praying for the Pope’s recovery.

Harmon reflected on the time he spent with Pope Francis in a story by Spectrum News Anchor Rachel Loyd. The segment aired on Feb. 25 on Spectrum Local News. Harmon met the Pope through his work with the Baptist World Alliance. Read more here.

“It was certainly an honor to meet Pope Francis,” Harmon said.

Their 2022 meeting was just as Harmon imagined it would be.

“Pope Francis was as many people experienced—warm, very personable, very engaged with the people and concerned about them,” he said. “Pope Francis was as many people experienced—warm, very personable, very engaged with the people and concerned about them.”

Watch the Spectrum story here.

Gardner-Webb University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., Gardner-Webb prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at Gardner-Webb.edu.

Interested in the School of Divinity?

Start your journey here.

Previous News Article

Coming in March through May: Six Opportunities to Visit the Gardner-Webb Campus

Next News Article

Save the Date: Gardner-Webb’s 10th Annual Double Dawg Day is April 10

Related News

  • News Article

    Gardner-Webb Launches Dual Enrollment for Eligible High School Juniors and Seniors

    Enroll Now for January 2026 Start; Offering Affordable College Credit and Campus Resources BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb University is pleased to announce Dual Enrollment opportunity for eligible high school juniors and seniors. These students can enroll in the same courses offered to GWU students, save money and earn college credits. Enrollment for the program is open […]

    campus shot header jpg
  • News Article

    Gardner-Webb Recognizes Nearly 300 Graduates in 2025 Fall Commencement

    Ceremony on Dec. 12 Awards Degrees and Honors Scholastic Achievements BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb University celebrated the achievements of nearly 300 graduates in Commencement Ceremonies on Dec. 12 at 9 a.m. in Lutz-Yelton Convocation Center. Students who completed the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees during the 2025 Fall Semester were recognized. Gardner-Webb President Nate Evans […]

    fall commencement - graduates enter the arena
  • News Article

    Four Dedicated Employees Retire After Decades of Service to Gardner-Webb

    Their Contributions to the Campus Community Have Shaped Generations of Students BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Four longtime employees are retiring from Gardner-Webb University after the Christmas holidays. Their dedicated service has impacted students through academics, Christian Life and Service, and ensuring a safe, attractive environment for learning and community. Retiring on Dec. 31 Susan Manahan, Assistant Professor […]

    A wide shot of the Gardner-Webb quad with students walking to class