Two-Day Conversation on Christian Love and National Interest: A Protestant Ethic of National Security

 Friday, April 21, 6:30-10:00 p.m.

Saturday, April 22, 8:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. (morning session is by invitation only)

                                     1:00-5:00 p.m. (afternoon session is open to all)

Redeeming Grace Church is hosting a two-day conversation being sponsored by the Davenant Trust, together with Patrick Henry College and Providence Journal, in which they will seek to connect the idea of national security to Christian ethics, bringing together local scholars and theologians, pastors, and interested laypeople, as well as those who serve (or are considering service) in the military, intelligence, and law enforcement professions.

The speakers and panelists will consider questions such as, How do we exercise Christian duty to show love to enemies while also exercising the Christian duty to protect our neighbors and countrymen from them? Can we have open arms and strong borders? To what extent should we be see ourselves as patriotic citizens of a nation-state vs. members of the worldwide family of Christ, with obligations that might run counter to national interest?

Their hope is that attendees and participants walk away with a new—or a renewed—vision for how the historical Protestant ethical tradition speaks to the often-conflicting loyalties of Christian citizenship.

The event begins with two talks and Q&A on Friday evening, followed on Saturday afternoon with two more talks, Q&A, and a panel discussion. Among the presenters are: Dr. Brad Littlejohn (President of the Davenant Trust); Dr. Mark Theissen Nation (Eastern Mennonite University); Dr. Keith Pavlischek (Providence); Dr. Marc LiVecche (Providence); and Andrew Fulford (Ph.D. candidate, McGill University).

Please register for the event through the Davenant Trust’s website (davenanttrust.org/dc).  The total cost for attending is $15 for students and $25 for non-students to help cover expenses. There is also a Friday evening-only option for a recommended donation of $10.00.

Church member, Brian Auten is on the board of the Davenant Trust, and speaking for everyone in that organization, he hopes to see many of you there — particularly Christians who currently serve in the national security field, or who might be considering a vocation in that area. He and others are looking forward to the company of new and old friends alike!

For more information, please go to davenanttrust.org or contact Brian Auten.