Episode Summary
In this eye-opening dialogue between science and spirituality, Dr. Nancy Howell, Professor of Theology and Philosophy of Religion at Saint Paul School of Theology who walks Adam through the Smithsonian’s Human Origins Exhibit. With a blend of intellectual curiosity and spiritual wonder, Dr. Howell and Adam explores the relationship between science and faith while examining the compelling evidence of human evolution. Far from seeing conflict between scientific discovery and religious belief, this conversation illuminates how understanding our origins can deepen our sense of awe about God’s creative work in the world.
Key moments from the episode:
- Ancient Connections Revealed: Learn how humans share 60% of our DNA with banana trees and 99.9% of our DNA with each other – a humbling reminder of our deep interconnectedness in God’s creation.
- Evolution Through God’s Eyes: Experience how viewing evolution through a spiritual lens can enhance rather than diminish faith, as Adam describes God as taking “delight in the development of species” over billions of years.
- The Power of Human Community: Discover touching evidence of compassion from 1.78 million years ago, where early human communities cared for elderly members who could no longer feed themselves – a powerful testament to our inherent capacity for kindness.
- Science and Faith in Harmony: Explore why many Christians, including historical figures like Isaac Newton, have embraced both scientific discovery and deep faith, finding that each enriches the other.
- Questions That Matter: Join the conversation about what it means to be human, as Adam demonstrates how wrestling with life’s biggest questions can lead to deeper spiritual understanding rather than conflict.
Whether you’re skeptical about religion, curious about faith, or wondering how to reconcile scientific understanding with spiritual belief, this episode offers fresh perspectives without asking you to check your brain at the door. Adam shows how exploring human origins can fill us with wonder at both scientific discovery and divine creativity. The exhibition is open to the public at St. Paul School of Theology until May 15th, offering a chance to engage personally with these profound questions. This is an invitation to explore life’s deepest questions with both intellectual rigor and spiritual openness.
Go Deeper
Evolution and the Bible & Smithsonian Exhibit at Saint Paul School of Theology
Journey into the heart of humanity at the groundbreaking Smithsonian exhibit, making its exclusive appearance at Saint Paul Seminary from February 4 to May 14. As one of only six theological seminaries nationwide chosen to host this extraordinary exploration, we invite you to contemplate the fundamental question that has intrigued philosophers, theologians, and thinkers throughout history: “What does it mean to be human?” Through compelling artifacts, interactive displays, and profound narratives, this thought-provoking exhibition challenges visitors to examine their own understanding of human nature while celebrating the complexity and diversity of the human experience. Don’t miss this rare opportunity. To learn more, click the button below.