About the Center for Applied Christian Ethics

Mission

The Center for Applied Christian Ethics (CACE) supports the mission of Wheaton College by promoting and encouraging the formation of moral character and the application of biblical ethics to contemporary moral decisions.

Practice

As part of the Faith, Learning, and Living Initiatives of Wheaton College, CACE serves Wheaton faculty and students through a portfolio of activities, including ethical training, public forums, and projects. An annual theme provides the organizing framework for CACE programming. Themes are selected for their interdisciplinary reach and their contemporary significance. Past themes include: AI & the Liberal Arts, Discovering Creaturely Life with God, Christian Nationalism, Speaking the Truth with Grace, Challenges in Christian Ethics: Charting a course for the 21st Century; Created or Crafted: Exploring Identity; What's the Frequency? Authentic living in a 5000 channel universe; Thy Kingdom Come: Christian Moral Engagement in the World; Environment, Economics, Equity; Community and Freedom; Competition and Success; Secrecy, Lying and Censorship; Greed and Generosity in Personal and Public Life; Distinctive Responsibilities for the Environment; Valuing Families and Family Values;Violence and Peace; Ethical Challenges of Globalization; Liberty, Security, and Dissent; Moral Judgment and Decision-Making in a Corporate Society, and The Future of Humanity: Technology, Medicine, and Genetics.

In addition to its on-campus presence, CACE provides the broader public with publications, programming, and conferences. Through a monthly ejournal featuring essays, projects, upcoming events, and academic publications, CACE presents evangelical moral reflections on contemporary issues. Most CACE campus programs are open to the public and announced in the local news media. 

Structure

CACE originated from a 1986 Christian College Consortium PEW project entitled 'Ethics Across the Curriculum.' Under the supervision of the Provost at Wheaton College, the Center's activities are coordinated by a part-time faculty director in consultation with college departments. 

Wheaton College funds the Center’s administrative expenses, while grants, gifts and donations provide primary support for all events, publications and conferences. To become a funding partner with the Center, please contact Dr. Vince Bacote or send your contribution to the Center for Applied Christian Ethics, Wheaton College, 501 College Avenue, Wheaton, IL 60187.