Thematic Issue (Illuminating Life)
by Tomi K. Sawyer*
*Saint Albert the Great Institute for Science, Faith & Wisdom
Our Mysterious, Glorious & Everlasting Gift of Life
Words of Wisdom: There is nothing more meaningful for humanity to reflect upon than its own existence, the wondrous nature of family, and how we may understand life as a mysterious, glorious, and everlasting gift from God. In this article published on the inaugural issue of SAGI: The Greatest Experiment, it is my hope to unify our noble endeavor with all who are seeking virtuous science, inspiring faith, and encouraging words of wisdom. May our good work provide hope a reality, illuminate the majesty of life, and seek truth for the glory of God.
GOD THE CREATOR OF LIFE AND THE BEGINNING
The first words of Genesis are very profound for billions of human beings who have pondered upon God the Creator of all things, including the gift of life. These words of Genesis powerfully reveal to us that God is the Author and the Inimitable Designer of Life. God creates through His Word, and we are created in His Image. God gives us the ability to think, speak, see, hear, and share life experiences with one another as well as the opportunity to participate in His Divine Life. Among the many Aspects of God is Perfect Love, which illuminates the True, the Good, and the Beautiful. An important vision and purpose of the Saint Albert the Great Institute for Science, Faith & Wisdom will be to convey knowledge and wisdom which illuminates the Truth, Goodness, and Beauty of Life. As stated by Louis Pasteur, “The more I study Nature, the more I am amazed at the work of the Creator”. Likewise inspired, SAGI will seek to illuminate the majesty of life.
SAGI’s SCHOLARLY QUEST TO ENDEAVOR TOGETHER
The history of the world reflects the efforts of many scholarly achievements that have positively impacted humanity to enable its rise as a civilization. Now, we live during a time which has a great resource of knowledge and educational faculty to enable a scholarly renaissance, embracing God in our quest to understand who we are and what constitutes a good life. Three quotes that may inspire contemplation of such points on knowledge and education include: “Your Word is a lamp for my feet, a light for my path.” (Psalm 119:105); “Knowledge is love and light and vision.” (Helen Keller); and “Education is simply the soul of a society as it passes from one generation to the next.” (G.K. Chesterton). SAGI will focus upon a project which we have entitled “Illuminating Life!” to establish a multidisciplinary portfolio of scholarly resources to fortify a God-centric education at all levels and the next generation. May we be inspired by the words of Saint Thomas Aquinas, “An angel can illuminate the thought and mind of man strengthening the power of vision.”
SCIENTIFIC ODYSSEY PURSUIT OF VIRTUOUS SCIENCE
Throughout the last two millennia, many great discoveries have been made in science that deserve celebration. SAGI will invite expert scholars to share their knowledge of key breakthrough concepts and scientific advancements in this great odyssey. SAGI aims to simultaneously address the underlying bioethical implications of science with both philosophical and theological perspectives. There is nothing more exhilarating than the “eureka moment” to first understand what has not yet been known or demonstrated. Yet, the scientific odyssey must be accountable when great discoveries are not used for good purposes. We must be ready to propose changes to redirect science to do good and avoid harm. SAGI will seek ways for which great science has an alliance with a virtuous purpose to promote the sanctity of life.
Human beings are not God, and there is a need for humility in science (and any scholarly quest). Three quotes that convey such humility include: “If I have seen further than others, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.” (Sir Isaac Newton); “We don’t know one millionth of one percent about anything.” (Thomas Edison); and “The best way to have a good idea is to have a lot of ideas.” (Linus Pauling). Finally, addressing the determined nature and passion of scientists to embrace virtue, are the inspiring words of Albert Einstein, “In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.” May SAGI support the pursuit of virtuous science as we recognize that God has provided human beings with the gift of intelligence and inspiration to do what is truly good work.
THE GREATEST EXPERIMENT
Scholars may have very different opinions of how to define the word “experiment”. Likewise, the definition of the “greatest experiment” deserves thoughtful analysis in terms of the consequences that may or will emerge because of performing it. Trust and truth are powerful concepts underscoring our relationships with one another. Such are also inherent to science, as there exists powerful technology and know-how to essentially do anything that was once unimaginable only a few years ago. So, may we trust and seek truth in God by the inspiring words of Saint Albert the Great, “The greater and more persistent our confidence in God, the more abundantly you will receive all that you ask.” Otherwise, science will be at risk of lacking integrity or being dismissive of veracity as was Pontius Pilate in asking Jesus Christ, “Quid est
veritas?”.
May we be inspired by God in whatever we do and may we seek to always do good work. The greatest experiment is yet to be achieved. Although we may think of God as the Greatest Scientist and acknowledge life as the Greatest Experiment, God’s Word and God’s Work are not confined to what we may define as the principles of experimentation. God gave humanity the intelligence and abilities to imagine, learn, teach, work, share, pray, love, unite, and behold what might be the greatest experiment. Perhaps, our collective good works for the glory of God may truly constitute the Greatest Experiment? This is my inspired thought to capture your imagination!
DEDICATION & SPECIAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
This first article and the entire Inaugural issue of SAGI: The Greatest Experiment is dedicated to Saint Albert the Great, a multidisciplinary scientist, theologian, and philosopher. This inaugural issue will be focused on the topic of “Our Mysterious, Glorious, and Everlasting Gift of Life”. This inaugural issue will include future articles to be accessible upon editorial review. Thank you to the SAGI Leadership Team, SAGI Scholars, and SAGI Torchbearers who have made special contributions to this inaugural issue through their editing, support, and prayers.
