Any internet search for subjects like creation, evolution, religion and faith will find plenty of material. Much of it however is based on slogans and a ridiculing of any ideas which don’t suit the author. Such language has led to the popular view that a scientific understanding and a faith perspective are opposites or even rivals. Our project is not about such arguments and it is not an attempt at proselytising. Rather it is intended to create meaningful and honest conversations which might enable us to gain a greater understanding of the issues involved.
Our project is led by scientists who have an interest in faith and theologians who are keen to learn more about what science has to teach, but we made every gathering as participative as possible.
Geneva is a uniquely appropriate place to have such conversations. It was shaped during the reformation by people who recognised that the way faith was presented by the church had lost the ring of truth. With new tools for study, research and communication, they set out to build a church and a city which would honour their understanding of God.
Still today our city lies at the heart of religious life, offering a home to organisations like the World Council of Churches as well as a broad range of religions brought here by our international population. Yet Geneva is also a centre for much scientific research and practice, through the work of private pharmaceutical companies as well as agencies of the United Nations. Then, of course, we have CERN where so much innovative research is carried out into some of the most basic questions about the universe and life as we know it.
Science and Religion –
What are they and how are they evolving?
What does “truth” mean for each?
Why are we here? –
How do we account for life, the universe and everything?
Where did it all come from?
So what should I do? –
How can we tell right from wrong?
On what basis can we make ethical choices in life?
How to make the world a better place? –
What is the best way to look after the planet?
Where can we find what we need to build a better future?