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During the first weekend in May, a Welshman takes up a key leadership role among one of the largest Christian denominations in the UK. For one year John Weaver becomes President of the Baptist Union of Great Britain - a denomination with over 2000 affiliated Churches, a membership of more than 150, 000 individuals, and six theological colleges.

Born and raised into a Baptist family in Cardiff, he later studied for a doctorate at Swansea University before going on to lecture in geology at Derby. After a time as a minister in Northamptonshire, he was Director of Pastoral Training and Tutor in Pastoral Theology at Regent's Park College, Oxford, for ten years. Now, as Principal of the South Wales Baptist College, where he's been since 2001, he continues to pursue his twin passions of theological reflection and the dialogue between science and faith.

As a grandfather of five, a campaigner on environmental issues, and a lifelong Cardiff City supporter with tickets, no doubt, for the F.A. Cup Final at Wembley in his back pocket, his interests extend well beyond the academic walls.

In this week's programme, Peter Baker talks to John Weaver about his life and work, his views on the relationship between science and faith, and about his passion for communicating the gospel to a contemporary world.

A Podcast of the programme will be available from 9:05 AM Sunday 27 April - click on the link on the right to download it.