Join us for a three-session conversation on Molly Worthen’s newest book, Spellbound: How Charisma Shaped American History from the Puritans to Donald Trump, a timely exploration of American religious and cultural life. From its roots in spiritual experience (charismata) to its modern expressions in celebrity and politics, Spellbound traces how this powerful idea has shaped—and distorted—our expectations of leaders and institutions. 

As part of our ongoing practice of reading anticipated new releases, this group invites participants to explore the spiritual dimensions that underlie much of American history and culture. In our first two meetings, led by Lumen Center Director Dan Hummel, we’ll discuss Parts 1–3 (Sept 12) and Parts 4–5 (Sept 26). For our final session on October 3, Molly Worthen will join us for an in-person Q&A and conversation. 

Fridays | Sept 12, Sept 26, & Oct 3 | 12:00–1:15 p.m. | Upper House | Free to attend (please purchase your copy of Spellbound) 

Daniel G. Hummel is the director of the Lumen Center. He has written about religion, politics, and foreign policy for Christianity Today, the Washington Post, Comment, and other publications. His most recent book is The Rise and Fall of Dispensationalism: How the Evangelical Battle Over the End Times Shaped a Nation (Eerdmans, 2023).