In the Beginning: A Catholic Scientist Explains How God Made Earth Our Home

by Gerard Verschuuren

The taste of fresh berries, the quiet cadence of waves lapping a lakeshore, the song of an owl in the night, the glory of a so many details manifest the reality that Earth is not merely the place where we are, but that it is truly our home and is meant to be our home. Most modern scientists dismiss this notion as romantic nonsense, arguing instead that Earth and, indeed, the entire universe is actually a cosmic accident, the mystifying result of billions of years of random events. Here in this work of basic science written for nonspecialists, scientist Gerard Verschuuren confronts those men and women on their own territory force for force, atom for atom, cell for cell, and even planet for planet. With clear, well-documented explanations, he shows that the latest findings of modern cosmology, physics, chemistry, geology, and other sciences tell a remarkably different story. Instead of the vaunted randomness of our immense universe, scientists have recently discovered indisputable patterns in the structures of matter and energy. Over the eons, these distinctive patterns drove the universe inexorably toward formation of the Earth as what we experience it to our secure, exceptional, and singularly welcoming home. In these pages, you'll learn, among other

Genres: Catholic, Faith, Nonfiction, Theology

192 pages, Paperback

Published July 25, 2019

Reviews

[Jeff Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

I pretty much always enjoy books of this type. Certainly not a creationist or ID take. Makes the proper distinctions.

[Cathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very readable take on the topic, written for non-specialists. I especially appreciate how he offers vocabulary and logic for countering the arguments of those who propose that there is neither design nor purpose to the universe. My main criticism is that he did not go into greater detail on some of the topics, but his footnotes offer opportunities for following up. Would definitely recommend for teenagers who are buying into the false argument that the Catholic Church is opposed to reason and science.

[JoAnn Plante · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although very scientific in nature, this book deals with the debate between scientist and religious about the beginnings of our world and if God is truly our creator. The author, Gerard Verschuuren, takes this argument apart piece by piece and argues both sides of the debate. As an astute scientist, he is able to delve deep into the science behind creation. He explains in detail how the earth formed and how it continues to change.
He also talks about life on earth and other planets. Although there is no definite answer to that question at this time, he reinforces the information we already know. He strikes a clear balance between science and religion in a way that doesn’t alienate the reader. Instead, it’s thought provoking and propels the reader to read on and learn more about a very complex question.
This is a good read for anyone wanting to know more about science versus religion in the creation of the universe. I gave it four stars, because it gets very technical in certain sections of this book.

[Paul · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent explanation about the cosmic design of our universe and earth. God created the laws of nature that allow us to live on this planet.

[Chip · Rating 3 out of 5]

The first 75% of the book was fascinating. I felt that the last part of the book on humanoids was a little light. Why did Homo Sapians survive?