In the month of July 1925, during a sweltering summer in Dayton, Tennessee, a now famous trial took place. Newspaper reporters of the time dubbed the case "The Scopes Monkey Trial."
The court case involved the prosecution of John Scopes, a science teacher accused of presenting information regarding the Theory of Evolution to his public-school students. At the time, teaching about evolution was against the law in Tennessee. The law known as the Butler Act demanded that teachers exclusively present the Biblical Creation story and avoid any reference to evolution. Arguing for the prosecution, devout Presbyterian William Jennings Bryan told the court that every advance in science weakens the faith of people searching for God.
One hundred years later, the idea of scientific discovery diminishing your faith may seem nonsensical. Yet, new insights that conflict with your current understanding can be upsetting. Especially if it threatens your spiritual foundation. Here at Unity, you are encouraged to embrace science and the pursuit of information. However, you are not expected to check your beliefs at the door. Rather, you are urged to bring both your faith and your intellect.
This Sunday, Reverend Dennis will explain that science and faith are not in opposition. Join him to learn how the pursuit of scientific knowledge and your faith in God can coexist.
You can join us in person or watch the service on our live stream feed.
Our featured ensemble is S.O.U.L. They are Gwen Gathercoal, Paul Gathercoal, Justin Gathercoal, Gary Buettner, Judith Pinkerton, and Patty Ashley.