Philip Yancey
For centuries, there have been famous scientists who also were publicly identified Christians. Scientists such as Galileo Galilei, Isaac Newton and Louis Pasteur, to name a few, combined their expertise with faith.
But as populations, technology and exploration have exploded in the 21st century, there is more of a gap between science and God than ever before. According to a Pew Research Center’s Religious Landscape study, approximately 62 percent of U.S. adults say humans evolved over time. More specifically, a whopping 98 percent of scientists tied to the American Association for the Advancement of Science believe humans developed gradually through time.
Despite the growing differences between God’s creation and science, there are still some who believe that religion and science can co-exist peacefully. Hoping to share that view of co-existence is BioLogos President’s Circle, which is presenting “Science, Faith, and the Church: An Evening with Philip Yancey” from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 9, at Country Club of Orlando, 1601 Country Club Drive, Orlando. Joining Yancey, a best-selling author and journalist, for an evening of discussion and worship is Calvin College biologist Ryan Bebej.
The program starts with a light reception in the ballroom at 6:30 p.m., followed by the presentation with Yancey and Bebej in the ballroom at 7:15 p.m. A dessert reception and book signing will be held in the Bridge Room at 8:45 p.m.
The event is free, but registration is required. Registration can be done online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/science-faith-and-the-church-an-evening-with-philip-yancey-registration-50910083430 via the internet. Complimentary valet parking is available. Parking also is available across from the entrance.
BioLogos was formed in 2007 as a 501c3 organization by Dr. Francis Collins in the aftermath of his New York Times best-seller, The Language of God: A Scientist Presents Evidence for Belief. BioLogos strives to convey the co-existence of science and biblical faith as drivers in evolution.
“My firm has been very active with the founding of BioLogos over ten years ago and as a financial supporter,” said Ralph Veerman, president of Veerman & Associates in Orlando. “They asked my wife, Lynne, and me to help host this gathering so my firm, Veerman & Associates, is managing. Jodi Thorp and I are on point for the event.
“The event will be an opportunity for Philip Yancey, as the primary speaker, to talk about his personal journey in seeking to integrate God’s truth as revealed in Scripture with His truth as revealed in nature,” Ralph Veerman said. “Philip is a gifted writer and journalist and also a wonderful, very thoughtful speaker. Ryan will speak briefly on his journey as a microbiologist and Dr. Deb Haarsma will make a few remarks as president of BioLogos.”
Following those presentations, Dr. Luder Whitlock will moderate a discussion with the three guests, asking tough questions relating to the subject, Veerman said. “With up to 350 attending in the Country Club of Orlando ballroom, it won’t be possible to have an open mic, but I think guests will love the insights they learn and also be appreciative of the civil nature of how tough questions are dealt with relative to science and scripture,” Veerman said.
Bob Creson, president of Wycliffe Bible Translators, will deliver the closing prayer. Yancey then will be available for a book signing during the coffee and dessert reception.
Veerman said a number of clergy are expected to attend the event. A host committee consisting of 32 families has invited many of their friends, including doctors, teachers and clergy, so the program will be packed.
“We’d welcome a good contingent of leaders from the Diocese of Central Florida,” Veerman said. “Bishop (Greg) Brewer is an old friend and years ago I spent time at RTS with (The Very Rev. Dr.) Reggie Kidd (of the Cathedral in Orlando). Case and Jodi (Thorp) have also spoken about (Canon for Vocations) Justin Holcomb with great respect and affection.”