Religion has significantly influenced American culture and politics. And although it is meant to be a source for unity and peace, religion can also contribute to conflict and division. This may be especially true today when people are increasingly aware of religious diversity and its impact on our lives. No matter where we live, we encounter religious pluralism. The encounter brings both challenges and opportunities. It can foster instances of religious exclusiveness and discrimination, but it can also nurture tolerance and understanding for a plurality of religious beliefs and practices. Indeed, while some see exposure to diverse religions as enriching, others see religious differences as threatening and divisive. How can we negotiate the landscape of religious pluralism in a way that contributes to the common good? The 2011-2012 Killeen Chair series aims to address this question by examining the history of religious pluralism in America and its effects in the present day. What can we learn from our past? Can philosophy and theology illumine the value of religious pluralism so that the diversity we encounter enhances our common life together?

In light of the tenth anniversary of 9/11 this fall and the upcoming 2012 national elections, the topic of religious pluralism in America could hardly be more timely. And it is certainly a fitting theme for a lecture series at a Catholic liberal arts college—and the only Norbertine college in the world—to address. We invite you to join us for what we know will be a stimulating and enlightening series.

		The Killeen Chair of Theology and Philosophy is a resource that underscores the importance of theology and philosophy in a Catholic liberal arts education and highlights the commitment of St. Norbert College to provide an education that is personally, intellectually and spiritually challenging.
2011-12 Lecture Series All events are free and open to the public Thursday, Sept. 22, 2011 7:00 p.m. Fort Howard Theater, Bemis International Center “Born This Way”: The Political and Personal Challenges of American Religious Pluralism  Dr. Kathleen Flake Associate Professor of American Religious History Vanderbilt University Divinity School Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2011 6:30 p.m. Sacred Music Old St. Joseph Church, St. Norbert College Musica del Cielo: Sacred Music of Spain and the New World Performed by St. Norbert College Music Department Thursday, Nov. 10, 2011 7 p.m. Fort Howard Theater, Bemis International Center Religious Diversity–A Challenge to Political Philosophy and Democratic Politics Dr. Robert Audi John A. O’Brien Professor of Philosophy  University of Notre Dame Thursday, Feb. 23, 2012 7 p.m. Fort Howard Theater, Bemis International Center Fundraising, Youth Groups, and “Sushi” Muslims: The Formatting of Islam in America Dr. Martyn Smith Assistant Professor of Religious Studies Lawrence University Thursday, Mar. 22, 2012 7 p.m. Fort Howard Theater, Bemis International Center Truth as Practice: Alternative Conceptions of Religious Truth and the Problem of Religious Disagreement Dr. Mara Brecht Assistant Professor of Religious Studies Dr. Tanya Randle Visiting Fellow in Philosophy