Q&A with Don Ray discussion

Perhaps the parameters of an academic environment spawn comparative questions regarding meaning. In reading the description of this group I had to examine my own responses to the desired nature of a sought discussion. Seems the thought that science is somehow separate from anything of the spirit; that education would be in conflict with faith; or that a lab is different from church--is perhaps suggesting that they may not co-exist.

I am an educator, a writer and a Christian and do not experience an angst in these topics at all. In fact, I have often puzzled over the contradictions that surface in both Christian and secular writings. For discussion purposes I am responding briefly to the three pairings of words: For me, the scientific method does not negate a conclusion inspired by the spirit and infused with sound research. Faith gives me the courage and fortitude to keep on learning and digging into the more of life's meanings and mysteries. The learning process requires faith in my opinion, and faith makes the vital connection with others and the knowledge they impart -- the educational process. The final pairing of words -- lab and church -- requires a bit more explanation. A lab is that wondrous place fully equipped to explore theories and hypotheses A church is a gathering of people seeking to explore meaning in a relationship with God. They neither replace or contradict one another.

Have you read any of Josef Pieper's writings? Divine Madness is an amazing expression of the way the arts are possible because of the connection with God. I feel the same way about science, education and the lab.

Donna,

First, thank you for your thoughtful comments.

Second, it seems I have found a kindred spirit. You eloquently express perspectives fully congruent with my own. Anything I might add to your comments would only muddy their crystal clarity.

Your statement "puzzled over" accurately reflects my feelings only yesterday as in discussions after my lecture an attendee struggled mightily with trying to reconcile science and spirit.

I felt partially motivated to start this discussion group by a desire to better understand those who hold this puzzling (for me) duality perspective on science and spirit. For me the laboratory (and they are indeed wondrous!) and the house of worship serve as two components of the binoculars with which we can peer into the mysteries and beauty of existence.

Thanks for mentioning Josef's Pieper's writings. I would enjoy finding opportunity to explore his writings, though this quarter's schedule precludes pursuing that interest in the immediate future.

Keep learning, keep teaching,

Don Ray

I love your binocular image! A kindred spirit seems a rare experience -- I appreciate your perspective.

You will enjoy Josef Pieper -- Tradition is another of his books that really explores the concept of tradtion and sacred tradition -- some more of those incredible connections.

Thanks for the mention of Tradition. I missed seeing your 8 Feb posting until now, but I will look forward to checking out Tradition as I continue to catch up.