Posted on Oct. 2: John Polkinghorne presents science and theology lectures

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[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/Polkinghorne.jpg” caption=”John Polkinghorne”]A mathematical physicist and Anglican priest renowned for his treatment of theology as a natural science presents two public lectures on campus this week.

John Polkinghorne is a Hooker Distinguished Visiting Professor invited by the Faculty of Science to lecture on his studies about the complicated relationship between science and theology.

The first lecture is entitled “Belief in God in an age of science” and will be presented Thursday, Oct. 3 from 7 to 9:30 p.m. The second lecture, presented in conjunction with the Canadian Scientific and Christian Affiliation, is called “How will it all end?” and will be presented Friday, Oct. 4 from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Both lectures will be held in HSC-1A1 and are open to the public.

In April, Polkinghorne was awarded the 2002 Templeton Prize, valued at $1 million, for his work in applying scientific habits to Christianity and being a unique voice for understanding the Bible as an evolving doctrine. He is a scientist-theologian who defends the role of science in advancing understanding of the workings of the universe. The Templeton Prize is the world's best known religion prize, awarded each year to a living person to encourage and honour those who advance spiritual matters.

Polkinghorne earned a B.A., M.A. and PhD in quantum field theory and a D.Sc for research on theoretical elementary particle physics at the University of Cambridge.

In 1968, he was appointed the university's first professor of mathematical physics. One of his most important contributions at the time was his creation of mathematical models that calculate the trajectory of fast-moving elementary particles, helping to reveal the structure of matter.

In 1979, Polkinghorne decided to resign his position at Cambridge and entered the priesthood, eventually becoming a parish priest.
He produced numerous books, writings, lectures and debates on the issues of science and religious faith and was appointed president of Queen's College at the University of Cambridge, retiring in 1996.
Polkinghorne has published two new books, The God of Hope and the End of the World and Quantum Theory: A Very Short Introduction.

In 1997, he was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for distinguished service to science, religion, learning and medical ethics.