Science and Religion

Join the Thomistic Institute in DC for an Intellectual Retreat!

In 1633, the Inquisition condemned Galileo Galilei because he said that the Earth moves. Does this mean the Church was against science? Or, more generally, has religion been a force contrary to reason? If yes, why have there been so many scientists who were religious—including Galileo himself? If not, how do faith and reason interact with each other? And what does this mean for science and religion today? This intellectual retreat explores these questions through the relationship between faith, reason, authority, and the natural sciences. Using case studies ranging from Augustine and Aquinas to Galileo, Descartes, and evolutionary biology, the speakers will examine how religious belief has shaped scientific inquiry and why these questions still matter today. Retreat participants will be invited not only to rethink moments of conflict, but also to dive deeper into the ways religious experience, philosophical reflection, and the study of nature have informed one another.

This retreat provides the opportunity to attend talks about Science and Religion, participate in Mass, attend Eucharistic Adoration, pray the Divine Office with the Dominican community, and attend socials with other retreatants and friars throughout the weekend.

There is a fee to attend: If you are commuting, the fee is $50. If you would like to stay in the TI lodging, there is an extra $50 fee ($100 total).