BioLogos Voices speaker Kathryn Applegate and BioLogos Advisor Oscar Gonzalez will present “How can the church bring about reconciliation between faith and science?” at the Association for Hispanic Theological Education’s Third Latino/a Encuentro of Theological Education (3ELET) on June 2 at 3:00 PM. They will be joined by co-presenters Samuel Caraballo and Ruby Gonzalez-Rios. BioLogos Advisor Elizabeth Conde Frazier is a conference facilitator. The theme of this virtual conference is “The formation of leadership for wholistic mission in times of change: shaping a collaborative vision for this decade” and will be taking place from June 2-3, 2021.
“The church has a significant role to play in shaping the attitudes of Christians with respect to science. Many young people who are interested in scientific careers do not feel supported by their faith communities. Even worse, they believe the church is actively opposed to modern science: studies suggest that anti-science attitudes and lack of openness to questions are among the top reasons why young people leave the church. In this seminar, we will hear the stories of three people who have personally experienced this tension. Ruby Gonzalez-Rios will share how she experienced a profound sense of isolation as she pursued her scientific training. Kathryn Applegate will tell her own story of coming to peace with science and share some practical resources for helping to start conversations in schools and churches. Samuel Caraballo will share how his study of genetics and his having a child with Down syndrome led to an expanded understanding of what it means for people to bear God’s image, which isn’t always easy for Christians to accept. Oscar Gonzalez will talk about finding a link between nature conservation and the practice of Christian faith through creation care. The presenters will then engage in an open Q&A about how the church can be a place of reconciliation, not war, between science and faith as well as about the important role theological programs should play in the formation of pastoral leaders that can create that space.”
This event is hosted by the Association for Hispanic Theological Education.