by Jorge Gomez • 4 min read
First Liberty’s Center for Religion, Culture & Democracy recently held its annual Savannah Seminar.
Every year, a group of students from across the country travel to the culturally diverse and historic city of Savannah, Georgia. They immerse themselves in a five-day experience to expand their knowledge of history, political thought, and perhaps the most important concept of human development and flourishing: religious liberty.
This program gives high-achieving young leaders a special opportunity to hear, meet and network with the best and brightest academic leaders in the country. The event deepens their understanding of the foundational concepts America is built upon and prepares them to advance the cause of freedom as they enter into their careers, whether as lawyers, educators, public servants or any other field where God may call them.
To bring their training to life, our emerging leaders study in locations where American history was made. Founded in 1733 as the British colonial capital of Georgia, Savannah is a perfect venue, as it was home to early American experiments in pluralism, religious liberty and civil society.
Outside of the lecture halls, students are led and escorted through some of Savannah’s most historic and scenic areas. Alongside expert tour guides, the group weaves through the cobblestone streets and under the Spanish moss-covered trees in city squares to explore and discuss the city known for its rich history, manicured parks, horse-drawn carriages and antebellum architecture.
Take a look below:
A LIFE CHANGING EXPERIENCE
Here’s several students sharing what they experienced:
“I was able to deepen my understanding of religion, culture, and democracy while on the trip. And what better place to do so than in the warm, sunny climate of Georgia? My peers and I explored the beautiful city of Savannah on field trips to breathtaking churches, stunning museums, and imperative cemeteries. We heard from some of the best minds about the importance of the fight to keep our religious liberties intact. The CRCD has provided me with an unforgettable experience, one that I will savor as I continue my education and pursue a successful career.”
Mikey Berry, Hillsdale College
“When applying to the Savannah seminar, I had expected merely an interesting historical survey of the city. What I got instead was an immersive and stimulating five days of historical storytelling, intense theological, cultural, and political conversation with my peers, and good Southern food. I enjoyed lively conversations over meals, during sessions, while walking through Savannah, and in the airport comparing our beliefs, practices, and experiences. I left the seminar full of hope, both for our fallen culture and for our divided Church, buoyed by the solidarity, friendliness, and love of my new CRDC family.”
Clara Kernodle, Harding University
“First Liberty did a great job allowing us to voice our opinions and confer with one another, and we spent a lot of time in conversation about philosophy and the works of Aquinas and Aristotle. First Liberty also chose some phenomenal speakers to help us understand how we can make a difference in our country’s society. The city of Savannah was so beautiful and full of our nation’s history. Overall, I learned so much on this trip and can’t wait to see what all the students accomplish later in our lives.”
Campbell Stites, Texas A&M University
Developing a new generation of bold religious freedom advocates is how we can continue winning not just in the courtroom, but also in our culture. The next generation will soon lead our country and carry the great responsibility of preserving its heritage of religious liberty for all. Equipping them is one of the best investments we can make for America’s future.
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