Father Robert J. Spitzer, S.J. – known for his debate with Stephen Hawking – to make Fall River appearance
Originally published on www.anchornews.org
FALL RIVER, Mass. — Successive PEW surveys have shown that the number of people actively associating with a religion is on a steep decline and, in particular, the young are the most vulnerable. In 2019, 44 percent of those in the 18-29 age range selected “none” as their religious affiliation — up from 23 percent in 2006.
Estimates indicate that this number will grow to 50 percent by 2023 if left unabated. Research also shows that the greatest reason for this decline in religion results from secular myths misstating the facts. Father Robert J. Spitzer, S.J., has dedicated the past 10 years to reversing this decline by presenting scientific evidence that thwarts all secular myths — including those regarding the existence of God, our soul, and Jesus’ Divinity.
The Diocese of Fall River Catholic Schools Alliance has announced that Father Spitzer will present “The Scientific Evidence of the Existence of God,” on Thursday, March 5 from 7-8:30 p.m. at Bishop Connolly Auditorium, 373 Elsbree Street, Fall River. There is no cost for the event. To register email info@catholicsa.org.
“It is so alarming to hear that the average age when a child decides against religion is 13 years old,” said Father Spitzer. “Most parents or teachers are not equipped to answer questions from their children when they ask about myths learned either from their friends or the Internet. So I created modules to act as a companion to the ‘Catechism of the Catholic Church’ designed specifically for middle school through high school students. It gives me great pleasure to help address challenges facing students when it comes to the formation of their faith. My favorite part of these lectures is the Q&A where I have been asked everything — and the ability to have an informal dialogue provides an additional opportunity for understanding and clarity.”
Steve Perla, superintendent of diocesan Catholic schools, added, “I have had the pleasure to hear Father Spitzer speak and am thrilled that he is here to deliver this much-needed message in person. Whether you are 13 or 63, Father Spitzer resonates with everyone who desires a better understanding of God.”
Father Spitzer is a Jesuit priest, world-renowned physicist, and the former president of Gonzaga University, who has written and published 10 books on faith, science, philosophy, and ethical leadership, as well as numerous scholarly articles in scientific journals. Father Spitzer is probably best known for debating Stephen Hawking on the “Larry King Live Show” as well as many other TV appearances. His modules can be found at www.CredibleCatholic.com and are freely available for download.
He holds a Ph.D. from Catholic University of America, and his academic specialties include: (1) philosophy of science, particularly space-time theory and transcendent implications of contemporary big bang cosmology; (2) metaphysics, particularly the theory of time and philosophy of God; and (3) organizational ethics and its relationship to personal and cultural transformation. Father Spitzer is the founder and president of the Magis Center, and he currently appears weekly on EWTN in “Father Spitzer’s Universe.”
For more information about Father Spitzer’s event, please go to https://www.catholicschoolsalliance.org/thereis-scientific-evidence-of-gods-existence/.
The Catholic Schools Alliance comprises administrators, teachers, staff, parents and clergy joined in partnership to educate the children of the Diocese of Fall River in Catholic faith and values. Fall River diocesan schools have a demanding educational culture that helps students from across the academic spectrum reach their God-given potential. With an emphasis on service and respect for the dignity of every person, diocesan schools prepare students to meet the challenges of today’s diverse world and become meaningful contributors to society.
For more information about the Catholic Schools Alliance, please go to www.catholicschoolsalliance.org.