Faith and Science

Faith and science are intertwined. In fact, modern science is a fruit of the Catholic culture that took hold, especially in the west. Not only were many of history’s great scientists Catholic, some were priests and nuns. For example, the founder of the big bang theory was a Jesuit priest named Father Georges Lemaître, SJ.

The Catechism and St. John Paul II on Faith and Science

What does the Church teach about the relationship of faith and science? “Though faith is above reason, there can never be any real discrepancy between faith and reason. Since the same God who reveals mysteries and infuses faith has bestowed the light of reason on the human mind, God cannot deny himself, nor can truth ever contradict truth. Consequently, methodical research in all branches of knowledge, provided it is carried out in a truly scientific manner and does not override moral laws, can never conflict with the faith, because the things of the world and the things of faith derive from the same God. The humble and persevering investigator of the secrets of nature is being led, as it were, by the hand of God in spite of himself, for it is God, the conserver of all things, who made them what they are” (Catechism of the Catholic Church 159).

Faith and science are actually in need of one another, as St. John Paul II pointed out: “Science can purify religion from error and superstition. Religion can purify science from idolatry and false absolutes.”

Helpful Links

Here is an article with a more in-depth look at the question, “Are Science and Religion Really Enemies?”

You may also enjoy these insights of Bishop Robert Barron on The Myth of the War between Science and Religion.