WHO WILL LEAD US FORWARD? A Conversation with Jon Meacham

October 13, 2026 | 7:00 p.m.
Shelton Auditorium | Christian Theological Seminary 

What can history teach us about faith, moral courage, and leadership—and about finding a way forward in moments of division and uncertainty? 

Christian Theological Seminary welcomes Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and #1 New York Times bestselling author Jon Meacham for Who Will Lead Us Forward?, a timely public conversation exploring the intersections of faith, history, democracy, moral courage, and leadership. 

Moderated by the Honorable Myra C. Selby, the evening will draw on themes Meacham has explored throughout his acclaimed work: the complicated role of faith in American public life, the moral choices that shape history, and the capacity of individuals and communities to meet difficult moments with courage and hope. 

This special evening marks the public introduction of RISE UP: A Campaign for Human Flourishing.  

Faith, History, and the American Story 

In His Truth Is Marching On: John Lewis and the Power of Hope, Meacham examines the faith that shaped civil rights leader John Lewis—a moral courage rooted in the Black church tradition, nonviolent witness, and a steadfast belief in the possibility of the Beloved Community. 

In And There Was Light: Abraham Lincoln and the American Struggle, Meacham explores Lincoln’s evolving moral convictions as the nation confronted slavery, division, and the responsibilities of leadership. 

Across these works and others, including The Soul of America, Meacham returns to questions that resonate deeply with the mission and work of CTS: 

How does faith shape public life? Where does moral courage come from? What can history teach us about hope? And who will lead us forward? 

For more than a century, CTS has brought scholarship and faith together in the formation of leaders committed to justice, healing, and human dignity. Who Will Lead Us Forward? brings Meacham’s work into conversation with that tradition for an honest, historically grounded, and hope-sustaining conversation about what those who came before us can teach us—and the responsibility each of us carries for what comes next. 

This event is free and open to the public. Registration is required.