The Center for Christianity and Public Life (CCPL) has named Alex Arnold as its first director of research, marking what leaders describe as a major step in advancing the organization’s mission to integrate Christian thought into American civic life.
The Washington, D.C.-based, nonpartisan group — launched publicly in October 2022 — said the newly created role will oversee research efforts, develop partnerships with scholars and practitioners, and inform public conversations about the place of faith in public life. The move, according to CCPL, is part of its long-term plan to equip civic leaders with ideas and resources drawn from the Christian tradition.
“After an exhaustive search which left me more hopeful than ever about the future of Christian civic leadership and scholarship,” said CCPL President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Michael Wear.
“I, along with CCPL’s Board of Directors and our entire team here at CCPL, are excited to welcome Alex Arnold as our first-ever Director of Research. We have been building toward this moment for over three years, and Alex is the right person for this role."
Wear had been impressed by the “rigor” of Arnold’s thought, “the breadth of his influences and concern, and the wonderful spirit he brings to this work and our organization.”
“This is a pivotal moment in the history of our country, and for the role Christianity plays in American life,” added Wear. “I look forward to working with Alex as we help civic leaders understand the moment and offer positive contributions that draw on the tremendous resources of the Christian faith to shape our politics and public life for the better.”
Arnold joins CCPL after serving as the Director of Research for Heterodox Academy. Before that, Arnold spent over a decade in various roles at the John Templeton Foundation, including serving as Director of the Foundation’s Philosophy and Theology programs and grantmaking.
Now, Arnold will partner with CCPL’s President and CEO to lead and develop the organization's Public Imagination work.
He will produce new research and develop partnerships with leading scholars, practitioners, and civic organizations. His work will advance CCPL’s mission and inform public decision-making.
“I am thankful for this chance to join CCPL's vital work,” said Arnold. “The Lord Jesus exhorts His followers to be salt and light in the world, and I'm excited to use the gifts and experience God has given me to obey His exhortation.
“Christianity offers unique and invaluable resources—intellectual, spiritual, and practical—for our civic challenges, and my intention is that through careful yet accessible research and meaningful partnerships, we can help persuade the public of the positive difference faithful Christians living out their convictions can make in American public life.”
Since its founding in 2022 by Wear, a former presidential aide and longtime advisor to religious and civic leaders, CCPL has sought to highlight the credibility of Christian ideas in public life and promote the public good.
The organization focuses on cultivating Christian civic leaders and providing Christian resources to public decision-makers. Over the last three years, CCPL has built a network of leaders who believe spiritual formation is central to civic renewal, led by Director of Christian Civic Formation Chris Butler.
With Arnold’s appointment, CCPL said it will expand its public offerings in the months ahead, producing new research, leveraging existing studies, and convening scholars and civic leaders to shape discourse and influence public decision-making.
This effort includes CCPL’s annual summit, For the Good of the Public, scheduled for the end of October in Washington, D.C.
