Bobby Angel explains why belief in God does not have to result in rejecting science.
Oftentimes, when someone says they believe in science, they’re using it to justify their disbelief in God, faith, or religion. Faith described using its latin roots loosley means trust. Science is defined as knowledge. This knowledge used to refer to the arts, religion, philosophy, and all forms of education. However, in our modern age, science has shifted from knowledge of what is true to strictly experimental processes.
A lot of people like to pit science and faith against each other, but they are actually supposed to compliment each other. St. John Paul II states this clearly in his letter, Fides et Ratio (Faith and Reason), explaining that they are both needed in order to develop a true understanding of God and Creation. It’s actually because of great faith that we have fundamental scientific discoveries, as well as institutions like hospitals, universities, and research foundations.
Some of the most famous scientists were also believers of Christ. Did you know a Beligan priest was the one who created the theory for the Big Bang? He’s known as the father of modern genetics, but still framed all his research with God at the center. Even Copernicus, a devout Catholic, became one of the biggest names in mathematics and astronomy, proving the sun is at the center of our universe.
So the next time you hear someone say, “well, I believe in science,” be prepared to recount the ways our Church supports the contributions of science and knowledge. God never intended us to be divided by scientific discoveries, but to use them to increase our understanding of Creation. It’s never been faith vs. reason, but faith and reason, working together in harmony for the glory of God.
Meet Jackie and Bobby Angel
Jackie Francois Angel is a full-time worship leader and speaker. Bobby Angel is a campus minister and theology teacher at a Catholic high school. Married in 2013, they have four beautiful children and strive to grow in holiness each day!
