The story of faith in America weaves together many strands, including Indigenous traditions, the convictions of early settlers, and diverse Christian expressions that have shaped the nation’s character.
From the Pilgrims’ pursuit of religious freedom to the moral vision influencing the founding era, faith has frequently contributed to American ideals of dignity, community and justice, though it has also been used to justify grave injustices such as genocide and slavery.
Over the past 250 years, revivals, prayer movements and public theology have guided believers through social and scientific change, and have called the nation to repentance, renewal and compassion. These movements, along with waves of immigration and denominational diversity, have produced a rich spiritual mosaic whose influence on education, civic life, and human rights has been both profound and enduring.
Looking ahead, the challenge will be to elevate the values that have historically brought out our best — humility, generosity, neighbor-love, religious freedom — while confronting past failures. Tensions between faith and public life, patriotism and discipleship, unity and pluralism remind us that the American story is still unfolding. When placed within the broader 2,000-year story of global Christianity, America’s journey reflects both the positive influence of Christian faith and a continuing call to pursue a more faithful, just and hopeful future.
MIXED BLESSINGS
Tracing the Life of Revival Faith in America
In honor of our nation’s 250th anniversary, this edition of Evangelicals magazine explores how evangelical faith has shaped America today — in both its strengths and struggles — including articles from renowned historian George Marsden, theologian Sandra Richter and documentarian Lisa Fields, among others.
Podcasts
Podcast
January 15, 2026
Mark Noll | Christianity and the Making of Early America
Mark Noll and Walter Kim
SMALL GROUP CURRICULUM
Faith in America
Faith in America is a free four-part discussion guide series designed to help small groups and adult education classes explore the intersection of faith and American identity with historical depth, scriptural grounding and practical wisdom.
Articles
RIGHTNOW MEDIA + NAE SERIES
For the Health of the Nation
For nearly 20 years, “For the Health of the Nation” has helped evangelical Christians apply biblical principles to today’s complex issues — now brought to life in an engaging 8-session video series created with RightNow Media.
Each 10–15 minute session includes a discussion guide to spark meaningful group conversations and equip believers to faithfully live out their faith in the public square.
Legacy & Resources
Our History
The National Association of Evangelicals was founded in 1942 as a fresh voice for biblical, Christ-centered faith that was meant to be a “middle way” between the fundamentalist American Council of Christian Churches and the progressive Federal Council of Churches.
Throughout its history, the NAE has played an important role in evangelical unity, public witness and cultural engagement. Dive into the full history, including key milestones and its role in shaping evangelical thought and practice in America.
Learn More about NAE's History
Let Freedom Ring 1976
For the nation’s 200th anniversary, the 1976 “Let Freedom Ring” resolution affirms that religious freedom is a fundamental gift from God and a central principle of American life. It calls Christians to protect and extend this freedom not only for themselves but for people of all faiths, emphasizing responsibility, justice and mutual respect.
Read the Resolution
Protecting the Freedom of Religious Organizations 2012
In 2012, the NAE board passed a resolution expressing concern that federal regulations on preventive health services did not adequately protect religious organizations, especially due to a narrow definition of what qualifies as a “religious employer.” The board called on the government to broaden protections so that all nonprofit organizations with sincerely religious purposes are included and not forced to violate their beliefs.
Read the Resolution
Preserving Our Democracy 2023
The NAE board recently passed a resolution affirming that representative democracy is a valuable system that protects human dignity, justice and the common good, reflecting the belief that all people are made in God’s image. The resolution warns that democracy is under threat due to declining trust in institutions and increasing political division.
The statement urges believers to actively support and preserve democracy through prayer, thoughtful engagement, and promoting justice, unity and the common good across differences.
Read the Resolution