
For the study of Christianity and Culture
The Lumen Center is a community of Christian scholars, located near the campus of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, committed to bringing the academic disciplines to bear on Christian culture.
LATEST FROM THE LUMEN CENTER

Lecture from Garwood Anderson: What can history teach us about Christian citizenship?

Peculiar Stories of the Holy Ghost: Charisma in American Religion and Politics
Second Annual Dallas A. Willard Lecture
October 3, 2025
7:00 - 8:30pm
Upper House
What makes someone truly charismatic—and why does it matter? In this thought-provoking lecture, historian Molly Worthen draws from her acclaimed book Spellbound to explore how charisma has shaped American history, from religious revivals to modern politics. She reveals how spiritual and secular charisma are deeply intertwined, challenging us to reconsider the spiritual undercurrents of leadership and cultural movements. Presented by the Lumen Center as part of the Dallas A. Willard Lecture series, this event invites the university community to reflect on the enduring power of transcendence, idolatry, and meaning in public life.
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Are you in the Madison area and interested in thoughtful conversations with experts on Christian culture? Join the Lumen Society to receive special invites and updates on our upcoming work.