In his Farewell Address, George Washington wrote, “Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports.” The Founders thought that the encouragement of religious belief—at a time when most Americans were Christian—was essential for the preservation of freedom. Today, Christians find themselves under attack and increasingly ostracized from a public square that is becoming ever more secular. This first CCA of the 20242025 academic year will consider the history of Christianity in America from colonial times to the present, as well as current controversies.

All times listed are Eastern Standard Time.

Schedule
September 29
4:00 p.m.
“The TheologicalPolitical Problem and the American Founding”
Glenn Ellmers
Author, The Soul of Politics: Harry V. Jaffa and the Fight for America

8:00 p.m.
“Jonathan Edwards and Christianity in Colonial America”
George M. Marsden
Author, Jonathan Edwards: A Life

September 30
4:00 p.m.
“Christianity and the American Political Tradition”
Daniel L. Dreisbach
American University

8:00 p.m.
“The Second Great Awakening”
Thomas S. Kidd
Author, America’s Religious History: Faith, Politics, and the Shaping of a Nation

October 1
4:00 p.m.
“The Social Gospel Movement and the Rise of Secularism”
Darryl G. Hart
Hillsdale College

8:00 p.m.
“Christianity in a PostLiberal World”
John Daniel Davidson
Author, Pagan America: The Decline of Christianity and the Dark Age to Come