The Mentors Radio Show

The Mentors Radio Show


459. Former Senator Jack Danforth Explains How Religious Congregations Can Heal America’s Political Divide

January 10, 2026

In this episode of THE MENTORS RADIO, Host Dan Hesse talks with former U.S. Senator Jack Danforth about Senator Danforth’s book, The Relevance of Religion, and why and how religious congregations of all faiths should endeavor to heal the political divide in America. An ordained Episcopal priest and former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Senator Danforth explains religion’s gift of “virtue” to politics, and his unique views on success and happiness. Former Senator John C. Danforth (Jack) is a partner at Dowd Bennett LLP and brings the strategic insights and wisdom gained from a distinguished career in public service and the law. Jack currently serves on the national advisory board of the John C. Danforth Center on Religion and Politics at Washington University.  An ordained Episcopal priest, Jack is the author of Resurrection;  Faith and Politics: How the “Moral Values” Debate Divides America and How to Move Forward Together;  and The Relevance of Religion-How Faithful People Can Change Politics. Following his three terms in the U.S. Senate (1976-1995), Jack held appointments in both Republican and Democratic administrations. Jack was Special Counsel in the investigation of the federal raid on the Branch Davidian compound in Waco, Texas (1999-2000). He was Special Envoy for Peace in Sudan (2001-2004) and U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations (2004-2005).   Prior to his election to the U.S. Senate, Jack was elected and served eight years as Attorney General for the state of Missouri (1968-1976). He and his wife Sally have five children, 15 grandchildren and six great grandchildren. LISTEN TO the radio broadcast live on iHeart Radio, or to “THE MENTORS RADIO” podcast any time, anywhere, on any podcast platform – subscribe here and don’t miss an episode!

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JOHN C. (“JACK”) DANFORTH: