La Leçon de catéchisme (Catechism Lesson), 1890, by Jules-Alexis Muenier (1863-1942), oil on canvas, Musée des beaux-arts et d’archéologie de Besançon

Always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you, but do so with gentleness and reverence.”

cf. 1 Peter 3:15-16

catechesis

A daily morsel of Catholic education and faith formation.

God

Big Bang Theory

QUESTION OR COMMON OBJECTION:

Doesn’t the Big Bang theory explain how the world came about, apart from God?

CATHOLIC ANSWER:

The Big Bang theory is just that – a scientific theory which attempts to explain the origin of the universe. As most scientists point to the Big Bang theory as true, it still points to the need for a creator to get it started.

The heavens are telling the glory of God; and the firmament proclaims his handiwork. Day to day pours forth speech, and night to night declares knowledge.”

Psalm 19:1-2

Despite what some people think, there is no real conflict between the Catholic faith and science – provided that each is understood correctly.

Other References: Gn 1:1; Mk 10:6; Rom 1:20

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Are science and religion incompatible?

by Reason2bCatholic

In the Christian tradition we say, God is the source of all truth. He is the One who put all things into motion, into creation. Science searches for the truth of things. Science need not compete with, nor does it contradict or conflict, the truth of God because God does not contradict or conflict the truth of Himself.

Did you know the father of the Big Bang theory was a Belgian Catholic priest, who was also a scientist? A man by the name of Georges LeMaitre (1894-1966), was a friend and colleague to many of the leading scientists of his time, including Albert Einstein. He is credited in the scientific community as the father of the theory we call the Big Bang today.

Religion and science are not incompatible. Don’t fall into the trap of believing what some purport, that the Catholic Church is “anti-science.” That’s a fallacy purported by people who are anti-Catholic Church. The Church seeks for everyone to know God, who, as the Creator of all that exists, is the author of truth Himself. This search for truth – the truth of God’s creation – is compatible with all areas of science like mathematics, physics, and other physical sciences.

Christianity and science are opposed… but only in the same sense as that which my thumb and forefinger are opposed – and between them, I can grasp everything.”

Sir William Bragg, Nobel prize for Physics (1915)

If you’re a parent (or you’re just generally interested in learning more about the compatibility of the Catholic Church’s beliefs with science) consider this great book: Brilliant!: 25 Catholic Scientists, Mathematicians, and Supersmart People by David Michael Warren. It’s well-done, the illustrations are great, and is a wonderful way to help (you or your children) understand that Catholicism and science are anything but in competition with one another.

The Catholic Church defends the truth of God’s creation. Science seeks the truth of things – it is the study of all that exists in creation. Think about it.

Peace be with you!

Disciple of Christ | Son of the Church

catholic answers

trent horn

When people say science contradicts faith, they usually define faith as “Believing without evidence”. In this Ready Reasons episode, Trent Horn explains why the traditional understanding of faith is not contradicted by science.

Stacy A. Trasancos

Stacy A. Trasancos is a Catholic writer, scientist, teacher, and editor. She earned a bachelor’s degree in science from East Texas State University, a doctorate in chemistry from Penn State University, and a master’s degree in dogmatic theology from Holy Apostles College and Seminary. She worked as a chemist for DuPont before leaving her career to raise children, which led to her conversion to Catholicism in 2006. Trasancos is an adjunct professor at Seton Hall University and at Holy Apostles, where she also serves as alumni association president. She teaches chemistry and physics classes at Kolbe Academy. She is the author of Science Was Born of Christianity and Particles of Faith.

The thomistic institute | Prof. Karin Öberg

catechism of the Catholic Church

For information about what the Catholic Church believes, answers to FAQs, and an encompassing resource addressing common objections and misconceptions non-Catholics and Catholics alike may have about the Church and what it teaches, we invite you to visit the online version of the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

PRAYER

Let us pray.

Prayer to St. Michael the Archangel

St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle.

Be our defense against the wickedness and snares of the Devil.

May God rebuke him, we humbly pray, and do thou, O Prince of the heavenly hosts, by the power of God, thrust into hell Satan, and all the evil spirits, who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls.

Amen.