John Witte Jr. Inaugurates New “John Witte Lecture Series in Law and Christianity”

John Witte Jr. Inaugurates New “John Witte Lecture Series in Law and Christianity”

On January 26th 2024, Robert W. Woodruff Professor and Faculty Director of the Center for the Study of Law and Religion, John Witte Jr. gave the inaugural lecture to kick off the brand-new, annual “John Witte Lecture Series in Law and Christianity” at the National Press Club in Washington, DC.

Dr. Witte’s keynote speech centered on the new great awakening of religious liberty, a conscientious reminder to listeners that religious freedom must be used “wisely to love and serve all their neighbors, not least those of different faith.” (Witte 2024)

The lecture series, created by former CSLR doctoral student, Dr. Anton Sorkin, will be held in even years in DC and in odd years in LA at the National Press Club. Sorkin’s hopes are that the forum will be a place to “listen and discuss the future role of Christian jurisprudence… A place mindful of the global significance of religious freedom and the communal challenges rooted in deeply held convictions and competing interests.” The series is dedicated to carrying on the legacy of Harold J. Berman, Dr. Witte’s mentor from his time at Harvard Law School.

The event was attended by former students of Witte, as well as his colleagues from the Center — a wonderful representation of the CSLR community, and a celebration of our scholars’ admirable achievements.

View a recording of Witte’s lecture here: The Future of Christianity & Law (Witte Lectures) — John Witte, Jr.