An atheist group set to host its national gathering in Oklahoma City has released the details of a pre-convention debate between an Oklahoma preacher and the organization's president.

American Atheist President David Silverman and the Rev. Randall Christy, pastor of Union Valley Church in Ada, will debate the topic "Does America Need God" at 7 p.m. Wednesday at the Sheraton Hotel, 1 N Broadway. Christy is also president of The Gospel Station Network. The event is free and open to the public.

American Atheists will host its national convention Thursday through Sunday at the Sheraton in downtown Oklahoma City with guest speakers to include the actor Hugh Laurie.

For more information, go to https://www.atheists.org.