What is science? And how does it relate to the Christian faith? These frequently-asked questions are highly relevant to at least 50% of our young people, thinking particularly of those being educated in science, technology, engineering or medicine.
The questions are significant for adults also, for most of us are exposed to television, radio, newspapers and magazines. All provide some coverage of scientific issues. Features on the natural world, cloning and pro-life issues are the most likely occasions for the issues to be raised and answers offered.
A notable characteristic of the answers we get from the media is that God is irrelevant to science and the natural world. It is as though everything goes on quite happily without him. Many are quick to see the implication: a God who is irrelevant might as well not exist. Humanity needs to 'grow up' it is said, leaving behind the crutches of belief systems.