Howard Payne University’s 18th annual Currie-Strickland Distinguished Lectures in Christian Ethics will feature guest speaker John Litzler, director for public policy at the Christian Life Commission (CLC) and general counsel for Texas Baptists. The lectures will be held on Wednesday, February 4, at 10 a.m. during HPU’s Chapel service in L.J. Mims Auditorium, and on Thursday, February 5, at 7 p.m. in the Richard and Wanda Jackson Conference Room of HPU’s Paul and Jane Meyer Faith and Life Leadership Center. Both lectures are free and open to the public.

The theme for Litzler’s lectures will be “The Modern Challenge of Religious Liberty: Protecting a Baptist Distinction from Extinction.” After receiving a B.A. in philosophy from The University of Texas in 2008, Litzler earned his juris doctor from Baylor University Law School in 2011. He has represented Texas churches of all denominations in court and a variety of legal matters. In his work with the CLC, Litzler speaks with elected legislators regarding the public policy priorities of Texas Baptists. He also speaks with Texas Baptists across the state to help educate them about current legislative issues and to encourage them to get involved and advocate on matters that affect their communities.

The Currie-Strickland Lecture Series is made possible through the generosity of Dr. and Mrs. Gary Elliston and was established to honor the life of Dr. David R. Currie, retired executive director of Texas Baptists Committed; and the memory of Phil Strickland, who dedicated nearly 40 years of ministry to the Baptist General Convention of Texas’ Christian Life Commission. 

Admission to the lectures is free, but reservations are requested. To R.S.V.P, contact HPU’s School of Christian Studies by e-mail at hclevenger@hputx.edu or by phone at 325-649-8403.