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Dr. Chad C. Pecknold
Dr. Chad C. Pecknold is an Associate Professor of Systematic Theology at The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., where he has taught since 2008. He earned his Ph.D. from the University of Cambridge in 2005. Dr. Pecknold specializes in fundamental theology, Christian anthropology, and political theology, with a particular focus on the thought of St. Augustine and its implications for modern philosophical and theological reasoning. He has authored or edited five books, including Christianity and Politics: A Brief Guide to the History, Transforming Postliberal Theology, and The T&T Clark Companion to Augustine and Modern Theology. His scholarly work examines the intersections of theology, politics, and culture, offering insights into the role of Christian thought in contemporary society.
Beyond his academic work, Dr. Pecknold is a frequent contributor to public debates on theology and politics. He writes regularly for publications such as First Things, National Review, and The Catholic Herald, addressing topics related to the importance and impact of Church teaching on social and political questions. He has been quoted in major media outlets including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post, and has appeared on radio and television programs such as NPR’s All Things Considered, Vatican Radio, BBC World News, and EWTN News Nightly. Dr. Pecknold also serves on the Editorial Board of The Catholic University of America Press and co-edits the Sacra Doctrina series with Fr. Thomas Joseph White, O.P.
In 2017, Dr. Pecknold offered a unique Twitter-based course on St. Augustine’s City of God, attracting over 1,600 participants from diverse backgrounds, including academics, clergy, and laypeople. This innovative approach to teaching classical texts reflects his commitment to engaging a broad audience in theological discourse. He is currently writing a book on a Catholic understanding of The City of God, further exploring its relevance to contemporary issues.
Outside of his professional endeavors, Dr. Pecknold resides in Alexandria, Virginia, with his wife, Dr. Sara Pecknold, who teaches music history at The Catholic University of America, and their three children. The Pecknold family is actively involved in their local parish community, embodying their shared commitment to faith and education. Whether engaging in scholarly pursuits or family life, Dr. Pecknold approaches his work with a deep sense of vocation and a dedication to integrating faith and reason in all aspects of life.