Springfield, MO, September 19, 2024 — Drury University is thrilled to announce that award-winning author, historian and public theologian Diana Butler Bass, Ph.D., will visit the Springfield campus on Oct. 4 – 5 to lead discussions on Christian nationalism in America. Her series, “Christian Nationalism in America: Conversations on Religion, Race, Patriarchy and Political Power,” will explore the intersections of faith and politics. These discussions are part of a conference for the National Avenue Christian Church’s (NACC) 75th-anniversary celebration. Other sponsors include Drury University, Brentwood Christian Church, The Venues, St. John’s Chapel, and the Mid-America Region of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).
Rev. Jenn Simmons, lead pastor at NACC, offers, “I believe in the gospel of liberation and love as known in the life of Jesus Christ. Christian Nationalism has misrepresented faith and increased hate, fear and violence in our nation. The work of the church is to hold space to educate ourselves about this framework and work together to build love and understanding in our community.”
Locations for the events will be provided upon registration. The series will begin with a welcome reception for Bass at 6 p.m. on Oct. 4, followed by her opening lecture at 7:30 p.m., “American Evangelicalism: A 50-Year Shift and Politics for the Rest of Us.” On Oct. 5 at 10 a.m., Bass will present “The Impacts of Christian Nationalism.” A panel discussion will follow lunch at 1:30 p.m.
“I wish to thank the Drury School of Religion board and area churches for helping to make this event possible,” said Dr. Peter Browning, University Chaplain and Professor of Philosophy & Religion. “As the chaplain of an institution of higher education committed to helping its students participate in and contribute to the global community, I am pleased that we will be co-hosting this conference to remind Christians that we should live together in peace and cooperation no matter which nation we call home.”
Additionally, on Oct. 6, Bass will deliver a sermon titled “Navigating the Path of Love” at 10 a.m. at NACC.
The events are free and open to the public, except for the Oct. 4 reception and the Oct. 5 lunch. Registration is required by Sept. 25 and can be completed at www.nationalavenuecc.com. For more information, please contact Dr. Browning at (417) 873-7231 or pbrowning@drury.edu. Rev. Jenn Simmons may be reached at (417) 869-9176 or pastorjenn@nationalavenuecc.com.
About Diana Butler Bass
Diana Butler Bass, Ph.D., is an award-winning author, historian, and one of America’s leading commentators on religion and contemporary spirituality. She has written eleven books and frequently contributes to major outlets like The New York Times, CNN, and The Washington Post. Known for her insightful perspectives, she has appeared on CBS, PBS, NPR, and other major media platforms to discuss the intersections of religion, politics, and culture. Dr. Bass holds a doctorate in religious studies from Duke University and lives in Alexandria, Virginia.
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