The Samford University Center for Science and Religion will present a free inter-denominational conference on “Science, Religion, and the Church” Saturday, Oct. 20. The conference will be held at Dawson Memorial Baptist Church in Birmingham, Ala., 9 a.m. -4:30 p.m.

Event organizers said the conference will challenge the perceived conflicts between science and belief that trouble many Christians and alienate many non-believers.

“Despite the common perception that science and religion are locked in mortal combat, it is only some scientists and persons of religious faith who fit the warfare profile,” said Samford Mathematics and Computer Science professor Steve Donaldson.

In addition to helping the faithful overcome the stereotype of Christians as scientifically naïve, Donaldson said exploration of the topic can help broaden everyone’s horizons. “Attendees will have the chance not only to obtain a more accurate view of science but to acquire a bigger view of God,” he said. “The idea that a deeper understanding of the universe and how it works can contribute to both personal and congregational spiritual development is exciting. “This conference has the potential to be another step toward making the mind a full partner with the heart, soul and strength with respect to loving and serving God”.

Dr. Karl Giberson will open the conference with a keynote address on the question, “Is Science at War with Christianity?”. Giberson is former professor at Eastern Nazarene College and former executive vice-president of BioLogos Foundation. He has written or co-authored a number of books including Saving Darwin, The Language of Faith and Science (with Francis Collins), and The Wonder of the Universe.

Other conference sessions will include:

Can there be Purpose in a World of Chance? (Dr. Tom Woolley, Samford University)

Where Do We Come From? (Dr. Wilton Bunch, Samford University)

Is There a Place for the Soul in a Physical Brain? (Dr. George Keller, Samford University)

What Difference Does Interpretation Make? (Dr. Todd Harrington, Dawson Memorial Baptist Church)

The Seven Deadly Sins of Science and Religion (Dr. Steve Donaldson, Samford University)

Free lunch will be provided for up to five ministers and members per congregation if registered by October 12.

Contact Mandy Hewitt at mhewitt@dawsonchurch.org or call 205) 871-7324) to make reservations.