There is an image that has endured in the American imagination for more than two centuries: George Washington, kneeling in prayer at St. Paul’s Chapel the day of his inauguration on April 30th 1789. It is a picture of a leader who understood that freedom is not merely a political achievement — it is a sacred trust. That image is at the heart of a new initiative from The 917 Society called God and Country.
Rooted in Faith. Strengthened by Freedom. United in Purpose. God and Country is a nonpartisan civic engagement program mobilizing churches, pastors, and community leaders across America to restore constitutional literacy and voter participation — right now, as our nation approaches its 250th anniversary.
The premise is simple but powerful: the church has always been the backbone of American civic life. From the Black Robe Regiment of the Revolutionary era to the civil rights movement of the 20th century, faith communities have never been bystanders in the story of American freedom. They have been its authors. God and Country invites them to take that role again.
What Participating Churches Receive — Free. Every church that joins the God and Country program receives a package of resources at no cost:
A 250th Anniversary Special Edition Pocket Constitution for every congregant
A replica of the First American Bible — the Aitken Bible — for the church
A 15-minute God and Country presentation, available in person or by video
Voter registration resources and civic education materials
Direct connection to The 917 Society’s national network
This isn’t a political program. It’s a civic one. The goal is not to tell congregants how to vote — it’s to remind them that their vote is an act of stewardship, and that constitutional literacy is a form of faithfulness.
A Nashville Initiative With National Vision. The 917 Society is headquartered in Nashville but reaches into all 50 states. The numbers tell the story: 32 million registered Christian voters did not cast a ballot in recent elections. These are not apathetic people. They are people who need to be reminded that their voice matters — and that their faith compels them to use it.
“Constitutional literacy starts in the pew just as much as it starts in the classroom.”
—Joni Bryan, Founder, The 917 Society
As featured on YourNews.com, God and Country is already drawing attention from faith leaders, civic organizations, and churches ready to re-engage.
How to Get Involved
If your church, pastor, or community organization wants to be part of the God and Country movement:
Email: godandcountry@917society.org
Learn more: 917society.org
Support the mission: 917society.org/donate
America turns 250 years old this year. The church helped build this nation. It’s time to help renew it.
—Joni Bryan, Founder and, Executive Director, 917 Society – www.917society.org
