Faith, Power, and the Soul of America

Rev. Dan Stark

Four Thursday Evenings: May 7, 14, 21, & 28, 7:00–8:30 p.m.

In our current cultural climate, the lines between religious and national identities are increasingly blurred. This tension leads many—across faiths as well as non-believers—to wonder whether we are witnessing a return to historical roots or a radical departure from the principles of religious freedom. Join Rev. Dan Stark, a local pastor and military chaplain, for a timely four-week deep dive into the history, theology, and contemporary impact of Christian Nationalism.

This course moves beyond the headlines to provide a foundational understanding of how to distinguish a healthy love of country from a political ideology that seeks to merge American and religious identities. Through the lens of a student of theology, we will trace the evolution of the Religious Right from the Cold War to the present, exploring how modern movements are replacing traditional democratic engagement with top-down governance models infused with religious elements. We will conclude by decoding the theological shifts shaping 2026 policy and reflecting on a response that prioritizes humility, service, and radical inclusion in a diverse society.

Why It Matters: This class is an exercise in theological and civic discernment. Our goal is to use historical and religious frameworks to distinguish civic loyalty from a "Gospel of Power" that can turn neighbors into enemies. This series is not about partisan politics; it is about examining how we can foster a society that chooses compassion and mutual respect over political exclusion and power-seeking.