Landmark initiative seeking integration of modern science and divine revelation
In collaboration with a private foundation, Herder & Herder Publishers is launching a landmark initiative for the development of a Christian cosmology based on reality as process, to replace the medieval static worldview.
The initiative will begin this fall 2021, with the publication of the first of six volumes by physicist and theologian Richard J. Pendergast, SJ: THE COSMIC HIERARCHY. God’s Plan for the Evolution of the Universe. This volume offers an introduction to a Christian cosmology, seeking the integration of modern science and divine revelation, with the aim of achieving a meaningful view of the universe.
Combining notions from science, philosophy, and theology, Pendergast weaves a coherent picture of what we know about reality. He considers the nature of matter, human consciousness, quantum mechanics, biological evolution, and the problem of evil. Addressing both believers and nonbelievers, he aims to offer insight into problems that may disturb the faith of the former or impede the latter’s search for God.
The publication of Pendergast’s six-volume Christian Cosmology initiates a much-needed program of evangelization, including education and research, aimed especially at challenging and supporting younger generations.
Msgr. Stuart W. Swetland, STD, president of Donnelly College in Kansas, was offered and has assumed leadership of the initiative.
Bishop Asztrik Várszegi, OSB, archabbot em. of Pannonhalma, Hungary, aided with counsel in the preparations, and continues as its episcopal patron. He was instrumental in presenting the books to Pope Francis through the ambassador of Hungary to the Holy See, asking that the Holy Father support the evangelization initiative by two actions: Issue a formal teaching on evolution and update the teaching on the Eucharist, for which a modern theory is proposed in volume 6.
HerderandHerder.com/pendergast-series/
ADVANCE PRAISE FOR A CHRISTIAN COSMOLOGY
“I have examined the first and the sixth volume you have graciously sent me and I am happy that Professor Valerie Miké will be able to present them to the Holy Father. I believe this initiative will celebrate the efforts of Fr. Richard J. Pendergast, S.J. (1927-2012), a scientist and man of God, who genuinely and honestly tried to seek the integration of modern science and divine revelation.” — GIANFRANCO CARDINAL RAVASI, President, Pontifical Council for Culture
“The relation between modern science and a modern Christian theology is one of the most important tasks for today’s theology. Following the inspiring paths of Teilhard de Chardin and working on a high academic level Richard J. Pendergast SJ gives an outstanding example with his significant contributions to this field.” — CHRISTOPH CARDINAL SCHOENBORN, OP, Archbishop of Vienna, Austria
“The call of Benedict in the beginning in Europe is echoed as Richard Pendergast proclaims the light of Christ to the modern world.” — BISHOP ASZTRIK VÁRSZEGI, OSB, Historian, Archabbot Emeritus of Pannonhalma, Hungary
“These [books] are most impressive and I am delighted to have read them. I hope they do a great deal of good once they are formally published along with the other volumes.” — MICHAEL J. REISS, Professor of Science Education. UCL Institute of Education, London
“A hundred years ago Teilhard de Chardin had a Christian vision of the world in the light of evolution. Following him, Richard Pendergast began the task of systematic analysis to reflect the vision that he shared, in order to help show the way in humanity’s search for God.” — BISHOP ATTILA MIKLÓSHÁZY, SJ, Professor Emeritus of Systematic Theology, Toronto School of Theology
“In our age, science is revealing to us, even more, the true grandeur of God’s design. Writing in the spirit of Pope St. John Paul II’s teaching on science, philosophy, and theology in a common quest for understanding, Richard Pendergast undertook the development of a Christian cosmology based on reality as process, to replace the medieval static worldview. This is the fascinating lifetime work of a Catholic priest-scientist, an original thinker who has opened pathways for generations to follow and explore.
While there may be other approaches, Fr. Pendergast’s desire to synthesize faith and reason, theology and science, to speak in a language intelligible to our technological age, is to be admired and emulated. His work is a must-read for anyone who wishes to evangelize the scientifically literate generations now being formed.” — MSGR. STUART W. SWETLAND, STD, President of Donnelly College, Kansas, Commentator on religious issues on national radio and television. Academic degrees in theology (Pontifical Lateran University), physics (US Naval Academy), philosophy and economics (Oxford).
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Contact:
Msgr. Stuart W. Swetland
Ethics of Evidence Foundation
913.621.8700
[email protected]
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Religion News Service or Religion News Foundation.
