Bishop Edward J. Weisenburger | Diocese of Tucson website

Vatican astronomers recently gathered in Tucson for the biennial Astronomy for Catholics in Ministry and Education workshop. The event, which aimed to teach educators to appreciate astronomy, welcomed participants from various backgrounds, including Catholic school teachers, parish priests, and amateur astronomers.

The workshop featured talks by Vatican astronomers, tours of the University of Arizona Richard F. Caris Mirror Lab and the observatory telescopes atop Mount Lemmon, and discussions on various astronomical topics. The Vatican astronomers, many of whom are Jesuit priests and brothers, shared their research and insights with the participants.

One of the main objectives of the workshop was to dispel the notion of a conflict between faith and science. Bishop Edward Weisenburger emphasized this during the welcome Mass, stating that "there isn't a conflict" between the two. He referred to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, which states that "truth cannot contradict truth."

The workshop also included a panel discussion with the Jesuit astronomers, where they shared their vocational journeys and highlighted the compatibility of their faith and scientific work. They emphasized that being a priest and a scientist is not contradictory but rather an integration of their whole selves.

Fr. David Brown expressed the unique experience of being a Jesuit scientist at the Vatican Observatory, stating, "Nature makes sense because it was made by a creator who makes sense." He described the science they do as an act of adoration of God and emphasized the Jesuit belief in finding God in all things.

The Jesuit astronomers emphasized that their work is not limited to the scientific realm but also extends to serving the Catholic Church and meeting spiritual needs. They minister in the Diocese of Tucson at both the Vatican Observatory and the Kino Border Initiative, where they serve migrants at the border. Br. Bob Macke highlighted the importance of providing connection to the universe as a means of meeting the spiritual needs of others.

Overall, the workshop aimed to nourish a sense of wonder about the universe and God. The Vatican astronomers believe that astronomy has philosophical and theological implications and that it addresses fundamental human questions. They hope to reach a broad spectrum of people who share the same curiosity and wonder about the universe.

The workshop was a resounding success, prompting participants to view the universe and its mysteries with awe and admiration. As Fr. David Brown aptly summarized, "The stars are a gateway for wonder and awe. God is the rockstar that made all of this!"

Those interested in participating in future workshops can mark their calendars for ACME 2026, where they can join in the exploration of the wonders of the universe and the integration of science and faith.