Are science and religion diametrically opposed forces? Can people of faith also follow the evidence of science? Is it possible or right to "believe" in science?
In November, HNOJ is going to tackle these questions and more in a three-part series - Science and Religion.
At each session, a presenter from a field of the natural sciences will present a brief talk. Then a panelist of experts discuss the session's topic. The night will conclude with a period of questions and answers from those in attendance.
We will be addressing the intersection of science and religion within topics such as AI, cosmology, medicine, miracles, evolution, the Eucharist and more.
Mark your calendars for 6:30-8 pm on Nov. 11, 18, and 25 at HNOJ. More information coming soon!
Topics
Nov. 11 - AI Revisited: A Catholic Discussion on AI a year later with Ian Sherman
Last year at Science and Religion Ian made a case for us not to be fearful of Artificial Intelligence. A lot has happened in the past year and the effects of AI are more and more felt in our daily experience. Is AI still under our control? Will it become self-aware? Ian, when are the robots taking over? Ian is a talented presenter and this discussion is likely to be lively and important!
Nov. 18 - Evolution of an Idea: Catholicism and the theory of Evolution with Chris Kostelc
Can Catholics be true to the faith and believe in the theory of Evolution? What do saints, popes, and scientists say about religion and science? Is science really science?
Nov. 25 - The Heavens Declare: The Astronmical foundation for the Star of Bethlehem with Jon Hickman
Is the Bible myth or history? Is that even a fair question? What is "real" and what isn't in Scripture? Did the Star of Bethlehem really happen or is it simply metaphorical? Jon Hickman makes a scientific case for the Star and for why the Bible is trustworthy.
Basic Info
Time: 6:30-8 pm
Dates: Nov. 11, 18, 25
Where: Emmaus Rooms at HNOJ
Cost: Free!
Who: Any and all are welcome.
What: Presentation, large group discussion on topics of Science and Religion
Online RSVP coming soon!
Our Presenters
Jon Hickman
An avid amateur astronomer since age 10, Jon spent 35 years in engineering sales, with expertise in optics and light, astronomy and electrical engineering. His particular passion is the complementary nature of faith and science.
Chris Kostelc
Chris grew up in a science petri dish of a family. His mother studied sociology, psychology, brain chemistry, and more. Chris's father holds a PHD in Analytical Chemistry as well as several lapsed patents and innumerable published studies. While the hard sciences interested him, Chris has studied theology and pastoral work with a Masters in Pastoral Ministry and 20+ years of professional experience. Despite allegedly being a south Maple Grove's resident expert in Kentucky's Mammoth Cave, he doesn't prefer tight spaces.
Ian Sherman
Ian Sherman is a data scientist with over 15 years of experience in applied analytics and AI, having held technical and leadership positions across several organizations including Land O'Lakes, G&K Services, Supervalu, and Best Buy. Ian holds an MBA from the Carlson School of Management at the University of Minnesota and a BS in Physics from Washington University in St. Louis.