Stephen O. Presley, Ph.D.

Stephen O. Presley, Ph.D.

Senior Fellow for Religion & Public Life

Stephen O. Presley is the Senior Fellow for Religion and Public Life.

Presley leads CRCD’s Religion and Public Life initiative that strives to offer a positive vision of religion for the public square.

He has a history of research and teaching in historical theology and the intersection between the great thinkers of the Christian tradition (especially the early church) and the Christian spiritual life. Presley is the author of numerous books, articles, and essays, including a forthcoming book on cultural engagement in early Christianity (Eerdmans). He earned his undergraduate degree at Baylor University, a Th.M from Dallas Theological Seminary, and a Ph.D. from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland.

In addition to his work at CRCD, Presley serves as Associate Professor of Church History at Southern Seminary and previously served the seminary as the Director of Research Doctoral Studies. He is active in local church ministry and has served the church in various positions.

Presley is currently researching, writing, and speaking on the topic of Christian cultural engagement and his work at CRCD combines his passion for recovering the best of the Christian tradition with a practical focus on renewing the culture today.

Our Vision

The Center for Religion, Culture & Democracy envisions democratic societies which affirm the essential role of religious convictions, peoples, and institutions in cultivating free and flourishing communities.

Our Mission

To achieve our vision, the CRCD supports the creation and promotion of high quality scholarship at the intersection of religion, culture, and democracy. Our publications, programming, and resources affirm the importance of religion as a public good for strengthening social bonds and reinforcing foundational freedoms.