Church states that in general the theory of evolution would not be in conflict with the truth of creation, unless it was presented from a materialist and anti-finalist perspective -- and both positions are not scientific, but rather philosophical, and must be so treated.

Moreover, there are "firm points" that must be kept in mind, especially when contemplating the question of the origin of man: His soul is created immediately by God -- it cannot arise from matter because it is spiritual -- and man, being made in the image and likeness of God, is called to eternal life, and has a dignity that must be respected.

Q: A master's in Science and Faith elicits many questions. To whom is it addressed? What are the topics you reflect on and develop? What kind of formation do you offer? What topics will be addressed in public conferences?

Father Pascual: The master's is directed to all those who wish to engage in the dialogue between science and faith, both scientists, science professors, scientific journalists and similar figures, as well as ecclesiastics, philosophers and theologians, religion professors, catechists and pastoral care agents.

The topics we study, as can be seen in the master's program, are all those that in one way or another are related to the dialogue between science and faith.

They are both general questions -- for example, the different ways of seeing the science-faith relationship, or the role of mediation of philosophy in this dialogue between the order of reason and that of faith -- as well as the most significant figures in this dialogue -- scientists and believers -- [and] some "questions of limit," such as the theory of the origin of the universe and Creation, or the question of miracles.

To foster this dialogue, additional courses are offered, such as "Physics for Philosophers" and "Biology for Philosophers."

The lectures will especially address all those topics that will enable us to cover the most significant questions, led by experts in specific fields, many of whom are points of reference and direction at the national and international level.

Thus the master's, which has also opened a collection of publications on these topics, is offering its original contribution, in keeping with the invitation in "Fides et Ratio" and other interventions of John Paul II to this dialogue -- always fruitful but not always easy -- between science, philosophy and faith.

Contact

Catholic Online
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Email

info@yourcatholicvoice.org

Keywords

Faith, Reason, Education, University, Regina, Rome