Scientific theories are often posed as a challenge to people of faith, but for many scientists within our worshipping communities, the two are a natural pairing. If your worshipping community has expertise in science, your PCC might want to consider applying for a Scientists in Congregations (SiC) grant, opening for applications in March 2025.
The programme, supported by the John Templeton Foundation, aims to build connections between scientific and religious communities, by funding projects that explore the relationship between science and faith.
St Lawrence Church, Barnwood successfully secured a SiC grant for Science, Faith and Creation Care in 2021. Since 2016, ECLAS has awarded over 70 SiC grants to churches and organisations.
The Revd Prof David Wilkinson, Project Director of ECLAS, said: “It is a joy to see yet again the creativity and imagination that come as scientists work with Church leaders in mission, ministry and serving the community. These awards, given to such a wide diversity of churches across the Christian tradition, demonstrate new and exciting initiatives which consider the vocation of scientists a gift to the Church.”
St Lawrence Barnwood
The 2021 grant allowed St Lawrence church in Gloucester to put in place a programme of teaching and engagement, and the creation of educational resources. It also went towards supporting their monthly youth sessions for families and youth, which they started in 2018, featuring outdoor activities, woodwork, nature conservation, and Bible reflections.
You can find the free eco-materials for churches and schools on: wildandwonderful.uk (live until mid-December).
This summer, ECLAS granted SiC funding for a new initiative: ‘Teens, T-Rex and Tree Sparrows’, which collaborates with l’Insitut Biblique de Nogent in Paris, and A Rocha Netherlands. The grant will allow its project leader, Petra Crofton, to produce environmental and science/faith educational materials for children and teenagers in three languages and run workshops with the partner organisations.
The materials include an activity book about science and faith, a guide for parents and leaders around climate and creation care, twelve outdoor youth group sessions with activities and Bible discussion (‘Wild Cards’) and a similar set around the big science and faith questions (‘Life Cards).
Petra says: “From a young age I longed to discover all about the origins and purpose of life, and how to care for creation – but there were no resources or mentors to guide me. Today’s young people have the added challenge of growing up in a time of climate crisis. In our project we want to facilitate discussion and creative exploration around science, faith, and creation care. Our hope is to inspire and equip youth, leaders and parents in the Netherlands, France, UK and elsewhere.”
If your church or organisation is interested in applying for a grant, the next round of Scientists in Congregations will open for applications in March 2025. ECLAS encourages churches to contact them beforehand to explore your idea. Visit here for more information.
The SiC grant is awarded by Equipping Christian Leadership in an Age of Science (ECLAS), as part of their SiC ecumenical programme.
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