What were the spiritual beliefs and core convictions of America’s Founding Fathers? What did men like Washington, Franklin, Jefferson, Adams, Madison and Paine believe about God, the Bible, and other matters of faith? How did their religious principles shape their vision for the newly established United States of America? Would any of these figures be electable today? Gary Kowalski, author of “Revolutionary Spirits: The Enlightened Faith of America’s Founding Fathers,” will answer questions like these on Thursday, February 23 at 7:30pm at the Islamic Center of Boston, 126 Boston Post Road, Wayland. The program is sponsored by the Interfaith Book Club of the Islamic Center. The book group is committed to promoting discussions among people of all faiths.
A graduate of Harvard College and the Harvard Divinity School, Rev. Kowalski portrays the founders as thinkers deeply influenced by the scientific breakthroughs of the 18th century, committed to free inquiry and liberty, both political and religious. Through separating church and state, they sought to make religion a source of cohesion in the new nation and avoid sectarian strife. Understanding the moral and intellectual foundations of the U.S. is critical to insuring that America remains what it has become today – not only one of the most devout nations on earth, but also the most spiritually diverse. Currently serving as interim minister to First Parish of Sudbury, Rev. Kowalski is the author of numerous volumes on history, science, spirituality and nature. For more information visit his website.
The program is open to the public. If you have questions or would like to join the book club, contact Shaheen Akhtar.
