Join us for our May membership meeting and a program on “How Religions Shape Our Culture” by Dr. Jenna Gray-Hildenbrand.

From saying “God bless you” when someone sneezes to the rhythms of the calendar year, religions have shaped and continue to shape American culture. While religious traditions vary considerably, they pose similar questions to people both within and outside their communities. For example, what happens when we die? How do we live a good life? How can I feel connected to something bigger than myself? Am I alone or are there others like me? This talk presents four ways religions shape culture through religious beliefs, religious ethics, religious rituals, religious communities.

As always, come prepared to share arts news from your own practice or organization! Flyers and business cards welcome. Whether you’re a RAA member or just interested in checking us out, we welcome you!

About our speaker

Dr. Jenna Gray-Hildenbrand, image by Andy Heidt, MTSU Digital Content Specialist

Dr. Jenna Gray-Hildenbrand is Associate Professor of Religious Studies at Middle Tennessee State University. She has published academic articles on Christian serpent-handling, the spirituality of hula hooping, embodied religious practice, and religious experience. Her research and teaching focus on the ways religions both inform and are informed by popular culture, politics, and the law in the United States.

About the venue

The MTSU Academic Classroom Building is located on MTSU Boulevard (which is off of N. Rutherford) adjacent to the McFarland Building. Parking is free and available behind and on the east side of the building. Find us in room 110!

Dome ceiling image credit: Unsplash/@delfidelarua7