Too often the relationship between science and religion has been viewed as one of conflict and tension. On the one hand, science is seen as associated with facts, reason, and truth. On the other hand, religion is often perceived to be based on mystery, faith, and story. And yet, both religion and science attempt to wrestle with the big questions of life and marvel with wonder at the mysteries of the universe. Rather than see conflict with scientific methods, our religious tradition encourages ongoing questions, testing of experience, and syntheses of understanding. What questions might we bring to ancient religious stories in this holiday season? What meaning and truths might we find in stories that are often not scientifically provable or true? As we explore the theme of science in this month of “holiday magic,” how might we more deeply understand our relationships with both science and religion?
December monthly theme
