Can Science and Religion Coexist?
Rocks of Ages: Science and Religion in the Fullness of Life The realms of science and religion have always seemed to be in conflict. As our knowledge of the world increases, so does the need to reconcile this argument. In his book, Rocks of Ages, Stephen Jay Gould attempted to solve this age old problem using a principle he coined: Non-Overlapping Magisteria (NOMA). The principal idea of NOMA is that science and religion occupy completely separate domains of human existence, and their application should not be confused. Gould says simply that, “science covers the empirical realm... religion extends over questions of ultimate meaning and moral value.” His argument is supported using various interesting and colourful examples from history where the rules of NOMA have been ignored, to society’s detriment. Author: Stephen Jay Gould Available from: amazon.com Recommended for: Christians struggling with the progression of science and its conflict with faith In short: An interesting read that does well in its attempts to reconcile the conflict between science and religion.
Stephen Jay Gould never claimed to be a theologian; he was an agnostic palaeontologist with an ongoing interest in religion. His anecdotes are very interesting and his argument is persuasive but, at times, a little abstract and confusing. It is hard to fathom who exactly the book is written for, as it panders to neither theists nor atheists. There is also a glaring lack of acknowledgement of any religion other than Christianity, which could have opened up many more interesting arguments. Overall, Rocks of Ages was fascinating and informative. It would be an excellent read for anyone with a scientific interest who is having trouble reconciling scientific concepts with the practice of Christian faith.
- Anne White
RRP: $14.95
Book: Children of God Storybook Bible
Book: Evangelism Without Additives Author: Jim Henderson Available from: Synod Office & Mosaic Resources Recommended for: Anyone who wants to connect with people outside the church In short: Live your faith in a way that gives permission to share your faith. RRP: $20.95
I have read many books about evangelism and, somehow, they just seem to fall short of understanding how things are here in Australia. This book, although authored by an American, gives us a starting place for evangelism where we can be authentic to who we are as individuals and also be authentic within our culture. The book is easily read, practical and concise. The ideas given in the book were practical things that anyone could do any day, rather than something requiring special education or gifting. I think this would be an especially helpful read for people who feel
they want to do more to reach those outside the church but don’t know where to start! Because of the easy manner in which this book is written, it’s suitable for most age groups from teens to seniors – it’s not about age, it’s about doable action. If you want to be empowered to reach those outside the church and still be yourself, then read this book. - Rev Ruthmary Bond
Author: Archbishop Desmond Tutu Available from: MediaCom Recommended for: Anyone wanting to help children engage with the Bible In short: The bible retold and illustrated for children. RRP: $24.95
This is a beautifully presented book, with high quality art from around the world to illustrate the stories. I like the way the different artists paint in such varied styles, portraying a variety of peoples. Although Archbishop Tutu has greatly simplified the stories, he has chosen a helpful balance of well known and less known stories, and the core message of each story is skilfully communicated.
purpose, though the artwork is a wonderful aid to the telling, and the prayer at the end of each story is a helpful way to finish. I like the way that Archbishop Tutu refers to the Kingdom of God as God’s dream. I found this to be very invitational – it grabs your imagination and invites you, too, to dream. - Rev Sarah Agnew
Though it’s not tied to the lectionary, I have used this book with the children of my congregation. I found the stories a little short for that
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Children of God Storybook Bible
Sharing faith without stress