Evolution Sunday: A Middle Path in the Evolution-Creation Debate

Published this evening on the online Progressive Theology Journal is my short essay responding to the critics of this event and sharing why my congregation will be participating. Take a read:

The way in which Americans view issues ranging from global warming to stem-cell research, from psychotherapy to the end of life, is influenced by an ongoing debate over how religion and science relate. The loudest and most strident voices would have us believe that there are two choices: scientific materialism or biblical literalism. Too often, when given such a choice, a sizable number of Americans choose the Bible over science. Sadly, this choice isn't necessary, because there's a compelling middle path that affirms both faith in God and an evolutionary-based science.

Although this mediating voice is often drowned out by the competing extremes, it offers an important way forward that can benefit our nation and planet by rallying a religiously-inclined nation to support important scientific research. While this middle path lacks the political notoriety and financial backing of its rivals, it offers a grassroots opportunity to reclaim a reasoned and faithful approach to modern life. The Clergy Letter Project (www.evolutionsunday.org), initiated by Michael Zimmerman, a scientist and university administrator, is just one of these voices. His "Open Letter Concerning Religion and Science," has garnered more than 10,000 signatures from clergy, biblical scholars, and theologians from across the theological spectrum.

Evolution Sunday, which falls on or near Charles Darwin's birthday, is a tangible expression of this movement. With a moniker designed to catch the public's attention, participating congregations (of which there are nearly 600 from across the country), are making a statement that religion and science need not be enemies, but can instead be partners in an effort to improve the quality of life for us all. Although each congregation will observe this day as they see fit, our observance of Evolution Sunday offers an invitation to the scientific community, inviting it to join us in conversation and cooperation so we can solve the great challenges facing our nation and world, whether they be AIDS, environmental degradation, Alzheimer's disease or the many other plagues on our society. (To read the rest click here)