[PHILOS-L] CfA: The Science and Religion Forum Annual Conference: "Grains of Sand & Stars in the Sky"

[Kieran Evans]

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"Grains of Sand & Stars in the Sky: Science and Theology from the microscopic to the cosmic"

The Science and Religion Forum are delighted to announce its next annual conference and is looking to receive abstracts for consideration!

 

The Science and Religion Forum (SRF) had its inception in a series of discussions involving scientists, theologians and clergy which took place in Oxford in the early 1970s. The key figure in the early discussions was Arthur Peacocke who was to become the Forum’s first Chairman,

and later a Vice President and then President. Today, SRF exists to promote discussion between scientific understanding and religious thought on issues at the interface of science and religion, and membership is open to people of any religion or none.

Please find the conference information below and booking/submission on our website: https://www.srforum.org/2026-spring  

Abstracts should be up to 500 words and submitted by 20th April (to be notified by 4th May).

 

From the moment early microscopes unveiled a hidden world of exquisite complexity in the 16th century, and the first telescopes revealed the vast splendour of the heavens in the 17th, scientific discovery has continually expanded our sense of wonder. Each new window into the natural world has brought not only advances in knowledge but also profound theological and philosophical questions.

Today, the sciences continue to push the boundaries of the observable—from the subatomic realm to the furthest edges of the cosmos. These explorations invite renewed reflection on creation, purpose, and the place of humanity within an ever deepening picture of reality. They also open fresh opportunities for constructive dialogue between scientific inquiry and religious thought.

This conference will explore how contemporary understandings of both the minute and the immense prompt theological engagement, shape religious imagination, and offer new possibilities for integrating scientific insight with faith traditions. Bringing together scholars from diverse disciplines, we will examine how science and religion can meaningfully converse in light of discoveries that challenge, enrich, and inspire.

 

Approximate running times BST (tbc) [ONLINE]:

15th May: 12noon - 5pm (conference) Gowland Lecture (7:30 tbc)

16th May: 9am - 2pm

 

In addition to keynote papers the conference will host short and lightning papers. We welcome abstract submissions from scholars, researchers, practitioners, and students working at the intersection of science, theology, and philosophy of religion. Interdisciplinary approaches are strongly encouraged.

 

* note whilst all papers must engage with science and religion/worldviews the Forum welcomes submissions related natural and/or social sciences.

 

While submissions on any relevant theme are welcome, proposals may wish to engage with one or more of the following areas:

 

The Very Small: Subatomic Physics, Quantum Phenomena, and Theological Reflection

How do contemporary understandings of quantum reality, particle physics, or emergent complexity influence theological anthropology, divine action, or metaphysical models?

 

The Very Large: Cosmology, Astrophysics, and Questions of Creation

What religious questions arise from current models of cosmic origins, multiverse theories, dark matter and energy, or the expanding universe?

 

Aesthetics, Wonder, and the Scientific Imagination

How might the beauty, intricacy, and apparent fine tuning of the natural world inspire new forms of theological wonder, spirituality, or liturgical expression?

 

Interdisciplinary Opportunities for Dialogue Between Science and Faith

In what ways can emerging scientific fields—such as astrobiology, AI, systems biology, or neuroscience—open fresh pathways for constructive engagement with religious traditions?

Submissions are open to all, members and non-members.

Thank you, feel free to contact me with any questions.

Kieran Evans.

Department of Philosophy, University of Nottingham

Communications Officer, The Science and Religion Forum

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