SMYRNA, Georgia — The Friends of Smyrna Library will host a Campbell High School graduate and an undergraduate researcher at Emory University to discuss how Eastern Orthodoxy and Western Protestantism have influenced national identity, political values, and leadership models across various societies.
Katya Burklin will present “East Meets West: Orthodoxy and Protestantism in Comparative Perspective” from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Monday, July 21, 2025, at the Smyrna Public Library Meeting Room. The presentation is part of the Friends of Smyrna Library’s Young Scholars Lecture Series.
Burklin’s academic work focuses on the intersections of religion, politics, and extremist ideology. Drawing on both historical and contemporary examples, the presentation will examine how these religious traditions shape concepts of authority, law, and the relationship between the church and the state.
She also supports research in Emory’s Political Science Department on governance and representation in diverse contexts. Her honors thesis investigates how apocalyptic theology fuels political violence in both right-wing Christian and jihadist movements.
The Young Scholars Lecture Series highlights the research and perspectives of outstanding students and early-career academics. The series aims to foster community dialogue and lifelong learning by bringing fresh voices to the public stage.
The event is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served.
For more information, visit FriendsOfSmyrnaLibrary.com.
