The oldest, largest, and premier center studying religion & American culture

About the Center

About the Center

The Center for the Study of Religion & American Culture at Indiana University Indianapolis seeks to elevate the understanding of the influence of religion in the lives of people and society at large. As a research and public teaching institute, we support scholarly discussion of the connection between religion and various aspects of American culture.

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Featured Events

Religion & Revolution

April 30 @ 3:00 pm
As the United States approaches the 250th anniversary of the...
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Our Projects

The Center supports and advances the scholarly study of religion through a wide range of programs and initiatives.

About the Center

Religion &

This series of monthly conversations brings together leading scholars to examine the relationship between religion, a unique theme, and their combined impact on our academic and cultural understanding.

Biennial Conference on Religion & American Culture

Every two years, the Center holds a conference featuring nationally recognized scholars who prompt ideas and share perspectives on a wide variety of subjects related to religion and American culture.

Young Scholars in American Religion

This program equips the next generation of scholars in American religion to improve their teaching and research. Early career scholars gain a professional community for peer learning and professional support.

The Association of Religion Data Archives (The ARDA)

The ARDA strives to democratize access to the best data on religion. Its goal is to preserve and provide access to high-quality data on religion to all.

Religion & American Culture: A Journal of Interpretation

This triannual publication promotes scholarly discussion of the nature and dynamics of religion in America. The journal embraces diverse approaches and perspectives to explore the interplay between religion and culture.

Congregations and Polarization Project (CAP)

This project seeks to understand how pastors and congregations from across Indiana are approaching complex and often polarizing topics considering the current climate of cultural and political division.  

Equipping Parents for Youth Faith Formation in the Episcopal Diocese of Indianapolis

This project is a two-stage collaboration with the Episcopal Diocese of Indianapolis to interview Episcopal parents about their parenting and faith and develop resources to support their children’s spiritual journeys.

Teaching Resources Library

The Center has a robust collection of instructional materials to help educators incorporate religious topics in the classroom. The collection includes resources such as college syllabi, instructional videos, and activities.

A JOURNAL OF INTERPRETATION: This triannual publication explores the interplay between religion and other spheres of American culture.

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News & Announcements

Young Scholars in American Religion

2026–2028 Young Scholars Application
Biennial Conference

9th Biennial Conference — June 4–6, 2026
Newsroom

Newsletters, Blogs, and Announcements from Our Projects
321
articles published in the journal
$24,533,865
in grant funding
99%
of attendees would recommend the Biennial Conference to a colleague

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Stay up to date with the Center's programs and events by joining our email list.

Center for the Study of Religion and American Culture
425 University Blvd., Room 417
Indianapolis, IN 46202-5140
Map & Directions

PHONE: 317-274-8409
EMAIL: raac@iu.edu

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ABOUT THE CENTER
The Center for the Study of Religion and American Culture is a signature research institute of Indiana University Indianapolis. As part of the School of Liberal Arts, the Center upholds the institution’s commitments to interdisciplinary learning and understanding the human experience.