By Marian Choueifati
It is often assumed that science and faith are at odds. Christians are prone to warn children about controversial scientific discoveries, and scientists are encouraged to disprove the Bible through their studies. This duality has widened the schism that separates individuals from God, situating faith in an opposition to science.
Noticing this cultural divide, Dr. Riad Kassis saw the need for a nuanced perspective, particularly for Arab youth who may feel forced to choose sides. His first book in the “Between Science and Faith” trilogy seeks to answer common questions, such as, “Is science incompatible with God’s revelation? Is it possible to combine true science and committed faith without one denying or rejecting the other?”
For Kassis, the joy of worship is mixed with the joy of discovery. Yet for many Christians, there is a fear that science could threaten their faith in God.
“Anxiety surrounds questions of controversiality, for fear that one might come across as too liberal. For that reason, Dar Manhal al Hayat (DMAH) prioritizes its presence in the region as a safe space for open discussion and conversation, delving into challenging thoughts and ideas that might completely transforms one’s beliefs and ideals, just like Jesus overturned the corrupt tables of the temple,” said Wissam Nasrallah when introducing the book at a recent panel discussion.