Luke Bretherton was born and grew up in London. His experiences working with a variety of faith-based NGOs, particularly in Central and Eastern Europe, and involvement in political initiatives raised questions that led him to study theology and eventually become an academic. Before joining Duke, he taught at King's College London, where he was Reader in Theology & Politics and Convener of the Faith & Public Policy Forum. Author of a number of books and numerous academic articles, he also writes in the media (including The Guardian, The Times, The Washington Post, and ABC Religion and Ethics) on topics related to faith and politics. Working with St Mellitus College is part of a wider transatlantic project he is developing entitled “Christianity and Democracy in the Atlantic world.” This initiative seeks to resource theologically and build links between churches and Christian organisations around the Atlantic basin working to strengthen democratic politics, reweave social trust, and foster a just and generous common life at a time when these are under threat on multiple fronts.