The Geoscience Research Institute (GRI) 2024 European Conference on Faith and Science recently convened in the city of London, drawing an enthusiastic and diverse group of over 50 participants comprising students, recent graduates, guest scientists, and researchers from the GRI. Attendees brought a global flavor to the meeting, representing nations including Austria, Brazil, the Czech Republic, Germany, Iceland, India, Italy, Mexico, Kenya, Nigeria, the Philippines, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Spain, the UK, and the USA.
The conference was synergistically organized by Dr. Noemi Duran, director of the GRI Branch Office of the Intereuropean Division (EUD) of Seventh-day Adventists, Dr. Birgir Oskarsson, GRICOM representative for the Trans-European Division (TED), and the US-based GRI staff. Building on past meetings organized for European teachers and university students held in Iceland (2016), the Dolomites of Italy (2018), and Spanish Pyrenees (2019), this conference expanded its reach through the invitation of lay scientists and professionals.
“The event offered the potential for Christian scientists and students to come together and share new ideas, insights, theories, and experience an environment of support and mentoring,” remarked Oskarsson.
For four days, the conference served as a platform for exploring a wide range of topics, from the foundational role of the Bible in scientific inquiry to the challenges posed by scientism and fundamentalism. Presentations explored the tension between naturalism and deep time versus the concept of catastrophe and design and the critical question of what the God of the Bible has to do with modern science. Attendees also engaged in thought-provoking discussions on how views of origins influence attitudes and actions regarding racism, gender, equality, and human rights. The conference ended with a visit to the prestigious London Natural History Museum, with a guided activity to examine some of the exhibits and collections.
These sessions provided invaluable opportunities for knowledge exchange, professional growth, and networking. As ideas flowed and new connections were forged, the conference reaffirmed the role of Christian researchers in sharing the biblical perspective of origins while engaging in their lines of scientific and academic pursuit.
“GRICOM has been a unique opportunity for me,” shared Paula Nicolas, a medical student at Balearic Islands University of Medicine. “Attending a conference surrounded by people who understood my concerns and could provide answers has been empowering," she adds.
Attendees recognized that their work and research as scientists are vital to the church, helping to bridge the gap between our faith and scientific understanding. The students expressed their desire for continued communication. As participants agreed to stay connected, it became clear that future initiatives tailored to their specific areas of interest would be invaluable.
Unveiling upcoming plans, EUD and TED leaders shared ideas for events such as Creation Sabbath, on October 26, 2024, a geology-themed field conference in the Paris Basin in November 2024, a biology-themed conference for students in 2025, and a monthly webinar series in the making, as well as encouragement for continuous engagement through GRI ambassadors in the various European Unions of the Church, Public Campus Ministries, social media promotion, environmental stewardship, Pathfinders, and education.
Conference participants left with a sense of gratitude and determination. They expressed their desire to make positive contributions in the area of faith and science as they continue to dedicate their talents to God.
This article was provided by the Faith and Science Council.
