As America celebrates the 250th anniversary of its founding, the religious dimensions of America's origins are being widely discussed and debated. In the Center's kickoff event for 2026, historian John Fea will examine the idea of America as a Christian nation, the role the Bible played in the American Revolution, the religious beliefs of the Founders, and how those beliefs may or may not have influenced their work as statesmen. Join us for this critical conversation. John Fea is Distinguished Professor of American History at Messiah University in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. He is the author of six books, including Was America Founded as a Christian Nation?: A Historical Introduction, one of three finalists for the George Washington Book Prize.

Over the last century, there has been a significant re-centering of the U.S. population as cities and suburbs continue to grow and small towns die, and family farms are consolidated into agribusinesses. How do we make sense of the changes that are taking place in rural America economically, culturally, politically, and spiritually? Is a future flourishing of rural life and culture in America possible, and if so, what role might Christianity play in bringing that about?

Are digital technology and AI leading us toward a better world, or are they profound threats to humanity’s future? Our answers to these questions stem from deeper assumptions and narratives about the nature of the world. This interactive event will explore the various stories that shape humanity’s view of technology, and suggest ways that the Christian story might guide us towards more responsible technology. Listen to the conversation.

The Center hosted an event asking an important question: in today’s polarized and politicized environment, can universities still fulfill their core mission of pursuing truth and advancing knowledge? And if so, how? Two longtime members of the University, Valerie Johnson and Dan Crane, offered their perspectives. Listen to the conversation.

Every Friday, students are invited to visit the center for our Friday lunch series. The Center provides students with a free lunch and the opportunity to hear from a Christian professor or alum. Hear what our students say about Friday lunch.

Listen to this interview with Rick Ostrander, the executive director of the Michigan Christian Study Center.