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Most evenings, Southern physics professor Kenneth Caviness, ’82, PhD, and his wife, Claryce, sit comfortably in their living room reading copies of books about genetic codes and Christian philosophy. Each month, their knowledge quest expands to include colleagues and friends in a conference room on Southern’s campus where faculty meet for the Faith-Science Discussion. Analyzing the background and current reports where these topics meet helps professors solidify their own faith and more easily explain to students the complexities that arise between these two core academic disciplines.

Decades of Discussion

For nearly 20 years, professors from Hickman Science Center and the School of Religion’s Hackman Hall who come from diverse scientific and theological backgrounds have discussed books and articles about creation, origins, and worldview topics of mutual interest.

“With representation from biology, physics, chemistry, computer science, and religion, it’s an enriching collaboration to come together and share collective insights and perspectives,” says Greg King, ’81, PhD, School of Religion dean and founder of the Faith-Science Discussion. “Together, we have made a commitment to understanding God’s creation and purposes.” 

Answering a Call

In 2010, Southern affirmed its stance on creation and the origin of life after the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists released a statement calling on all Adventist institutions to uphold the one-week creation story found in Scripture. King considers the discussion group an active response to that directive.

The group’s study materials range from pieces by conservative authors, such as Nancy Pearcey and Don DeYoung, to Micheal Behe, Lee Strobel, and others who combine biblical and evolutionary views. During the Biology and Allied Health Department’s annual Origins Weekend each spring, one of the authors is often invited to speak for convocation, creating the opportunity for students to join in these critical discussions.

The office shelves of chemistry professor Mitch Menzmer, PhD, are full of printed works from years of participating in the group. “I want to have a solid understanding of what the Bible teaches and what we find in nature. Since I’m a scientist, I have greater exposure to scientific thinking and ideas, so I ask different kinds of questions than a theologian,” he says. “During our gatherings, we go through each publication in a methodical way, probing and critiquing and comparing ideas with our church’s view.” Menzmer’s favorite discussions have centered on thermodynamics and the origin of life from nonliving matter.

Colleagues and Friends

Beyond the monthly meetings, participants in the discussion group have the chance to frequently connect outside their respective academic disciplines with other faculty members and Southern administrators who attend. “Our discussions facilitate cross-campus comradery. There’s a symbolism in coming together and recognizing that we hold something in common,” says Stephen Bauer, PhD, theology professor in the School of Religion. During meetings, members verify each other’s assumptions and claims, respectfully communicate about current scientific discoveries, or correct one another on translations of a biblical Hebrew text. “It’s a very respectful and collegial environment,” he says. 

Outside the Conference Room

“As we approach challenging topics in our classes, students have questions. We want to be able to speak intelligently about any surrounding issues,” Menzmer says. “We need to know who believes what and why, along with the reasons we hold certain positions as Adventists. That’s the big picture.”

Faculty are also able to keep abreast of differing trains of thought in their fields and share their insights with others off campus. Caviness has had opportunities to share some of the group’s collective ideas worldwide. “I started with one paper for a conference, and one thing led to another. Now I have 10 different presentations that I’ve used in South India, Ukraine, Argentina, and Germany as well as here in the United States,” he says. “God has put a burden on my heart to share that science and religion are not at war with each other. In fact, science is an act of worship. We study science because we are in awe of God’s creation.”

King expresses: “What a joy it is to work and teach with people who are committed to God as Creator. That belief brings us together in community and gives us the opportunity to know each other a little better while appreciating the insights of different disciplines.”

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