Faith and science conference in Sagunto, Spain, coincides with August 12 total solar eclipse

More than 30 scientists and science enthusiasts gathered in Sagunto, Spain, from August 10 to 13 for a Conference on Faith and Science organized by the Research Institute of Geoscience (GRI). The meeting was timed to coincide with the total solar eclipse of August 12, which drew attention across Europe. Participants were able to watch the event from the moment the moon began to pass across the face of the sun.

Under the theme “The Sun Still Shines,” representatives from more than 10 countries explored the relationship between science and creation. Two international speakers led the sessions. Joshua Cardoso Dos Santos, a Brazilian scientist based in the United States, is an assistant professor at the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs, where he specializes in celestial mechanics. Daniel Blanco, a professor and researcher from Argentina at the National University of the Litoral, specializes in epistemology and history of science.

The two speakers approached the subject from different academic backgrounds. Their presentations ranged from Ptolemy’s mathematical responses to what he regarded as a “rebel” cosmos, and the fine adjustment of the universe, to the speed of light and the challenge of teaching physics and astronomy from a biblical perspective.

On the evening of the eclipse, attendees and visitors climbed the hill behind the Adventist College of Sagunto despite the heat. They brought hats, insect repellent and ISO-certified glasses for eclipse observation, and gathered on the hillside to wait. One visitor later described the spectacle as “absolutely not overrated.”

The eclipse began at about 7:30 p.m. and reached its peak at about 8:30 p.m., and the group cheered as it unfolded. For most participants, it was their first time seeing a total solar eclipse. Noemí Durán, GRI director in Europe and the event’s organizer, said that sharing the experience was one of its most meaningful aspects. She said that everyone in the group felt the same wonder as they removed their protective glasses and saw the sun fully covered. Durán said that people were heard shouting “Glory to God” and “Thank you, God,” and described the moment as a gift for the whole group.

The conference drew a range of European professionals and students, including physicists, pharmacologists, engineers and social media content creators interested in sharing material on faith and science online. Organizers said participants came from different backgrounds but shared a desire to explore questions about faith and science together.

Claudio Gargano, a GRI ambassador from Italy who works as a marine biologist, said he began attending such events to explore “how my belief in Christ fits into the world I live in.” He said he now sees the conference as a starting point for wider conversations, and that he hopes to make GRI’s work better known through local activities and international events. Martin Borm, a German pastor and physicist, said understanding how things work in nature and in Scripture is central to closing gaps in knowledge. He said that people have caused much destruction because they did not understand, and that participants should use their capacity for understanding (Colossians 3:23).

Héctor Postigo, a Spanish assistant who is finishing a career in physics, described his own learning process. He said that as a child he held a simplified view of the big bang theory and rejected it, but that his understanding changed over time. He said the theory had helped him see that the universe has a beginning, and he described it as opening, though not categorically, a conversation about origins in scientific circles.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Spanish)