Commentary

The following were Richard Flory’s opening remarks at the USC Center for Religion and Civic Culture’s Compelling Preaching Across Divides conference, held on November 20, 2024.

Announcement

The USC Center for Religion and Civic Culture is launching a new project that seeks to help faith leaders think about their preaching in an ever-changing social and cultural landscape.

CRCC in the News

Rick Warren, founder and pastor of Saddleback Church, is challenging the Southern Baptist Convention’s (SBC) belief that women should not be pastors in their church. The Washington Post interviewed the CRCC’s executive director, Richard Flory, about his thoughts on Warren’s disagreement with SBC.

CRCC in the News

The "He Gets Us" ad campaign has caused debate about its portrayal of Jesus, but Jesus always has had many faces in American culture. The Wall Street Journal describes how various Christian churches and movements have portrayed Jesus over the years, quoting the USC Center for Religion and Civic Culture's Richard Flory.

Commentary

Will congregations recover after the trauma of the pandemic? 

Will Twitter survive Elon Musk? Or will alternative social media platforms provide a better home for thriving communities? 

What will become of all the diversity, equity and inclusion efforts spurred by the murder of George Floyd, now that racial justice is not making headlines? 

Locally, can progressive movements use newfound positions of power to make a dent in the social issues that plague Los Angeles?

Connect with CRCC

Building Knowledge, Strengthening Communities

Our mission is to advance the understanding of religion and society, and support faith and community leaders in becoming full partners in the work of positive social change.

About Us

Support Our Work

The USC Center for Religion and Civic Culture is independently funded by grants, contracts and gifts. We welcome your partnership and financial support.

Make a tax-deductible contribution to support our mission.

Contact Us

Center for Religion and Civic Culture
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA 90089-0520