Autumn Conference on Religion & Science at Andrews

From Oct. 31 to Nov. 1, 2025

The 20th annual Andrews Autumn Conference on Religion & Science took place on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1, 2025. (Photo by Christa McConnell)

The 20th annual Andrews Autumn Conference on Religion & Science, themed “The Unnecessary War Between Science and Religion,” was held from Oct. 31 to Nov. 1 at the Biology Amphitheater in Price Hall. The conference explored the historical relationship between science and religion, tracing the Christian origins of modern empirical science and examining a future grounded in mutual respect and dialogue.

The event began with an evening vespers service on Oct. 31 led by A. Rahel Wells, professor of biblical studies at Andrews University. Her talk was titled “Harmony in the Value of Creation.” Wells reflected on the wisdom, beauty and harmony of the Creator and the intrinsic value of creation as a living testament to God’s sustaining power. She encouraged attendees to see the relationship between science and religion not as “war” but as a complementary dialogue. Wells also emphasized humanity’s responsibility as caretakers of the Earth, framing environmental stewardship as both an ethical and spiritual calling. In conclusion, she noted that science and religion speak the same truth in different languages: one through observation and the other through revelation.

The following day began with a devotional led by John Reeve, associate professor of church history at Andrews University, who shared how both science and faith offer valuable insights but are limited by human understanding. He noted that true wisdom comes from humbly recognizing those limits and trusting God, who alone knows all truth and remains faithful. After the devotional, Wagner Kuhn, chief academic officer, welcomed attendees and introduced the presenters.

The first speaker was Gary Burdick, professor of physics and dean of Research at Andrews University, who spoke on “The Theological Foundations of Modern Empirical Science.” Burdick explained that modern science grew out of key theological and philosophical beliefs, progressing through a series of paradigm shifts. Early scientists assumed three things: that the universe exists and invites study, that it is orderly and governed by consistent laws, and that humans are uniquely able to understand it through reason. These ideas were strongly shaped by religion, since many founders of modern science believed that studying nature was a way to understand God’s creation. Burdick concluded by emphasizing that faith, reason and scientific inquiry are partners that, together, can create a deeper understanding of the universe.

The next presentation was by Jeffrey Koperski, professor of philosophy at Saginaw Valley State University, on “How the Laws of Nature Were Naturalized.” He shared that ancient and medieval thinkers did not think in terms of “laws of nature” but rather saw nature’s order as flowing from the essence of things. During the Scientific Revolution, this idea was replaced by the view that nature’s order comes from God, making observation and experimentation ways to uncover God’s design. By the 18th and 19th centuries, this theistic view began to fade, and the laws of nature were redefined as descriptions of regular patterns. This perspective led to the modern view of science as secular and in conflict with religion.

After a short break, Ralph Stearley, professor of geology at Calvin University, gave a talk titled, “Calvin Under the Waves: The Rise of Flood Geology.” He shared his personal journey from being a young believer influenced by creationism to becoming a geologist who embraces the deep history of the Earth, indicating that faith and evidence can grow together. Stearley went on to trace the history of the perceived “war” between science and religion, with particular emphasis on its impact on Calvin College (now Calvin University) from the 1960s through 1980s. This included the rise of modern fundamentalism and flood geology as well as modern debates arising subsequent to the 1925 Scopes Trial. Ultimately, Stearley encouraged listeners to pursue truth with humility, curiosity and compassion, reminding them that science and faith are not enemies but partners in understanding God’s creation.

The final presentation was titled “Super-Natural Miracles: An Adventist Perspective” by Martin Hanna, associate professor of systematic theology at Andrews University. Hanna explored the question of whether miracles can coexist with the laws of nature. He shared his belief that miracles are not violations of natural laws but rather expressions of God’s power working through them. The presentation described three types of divine miracles: creation miracles, sustaining miracles and interactive miracles. Hanna explained that supernatural acts reveal God’s wisdom and character through means that may exceed human understanding. He encouraged the audience to see science and faith as “two great sister forces pulling humility upward,” emphasizing the great miracle of human existence as evidence of God’s creative and sustaining power.

After lunch, Reeve moderated a panel discussion featuring Burdick, Koperski, Stearley and Hanna. The panelists conversed about the ongoing dialogue between science, religion and philosophy, emphasizing how understanding reality requires a balance of reason, observation and faith. They revisited topics from earlier in the day, such as the historical foundations of science, the “war” between science and religion, and the theme of miracles. The Adventist way of thinking was highlighted as a unique approach that blends theology and science, valuing reason, health and divine revelation in harmony.

After the panel discussion, participants were invited to a worship led by Francky Rakotoarimanga, graduate accounting and finance major, and friends, followed by a supper. The conference concluded with the message of science and faith as companions, not enemies. Attendees learned that while science explains how creation unfolds, faith asks why it exists. Both faith and science rely on wonder, seek truth and point to a reality beyond human comprehension. Ultimately, the gathering emphasized that God’s creation is a continuous miracle, sustained by divine love and open to endless discovery.