Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

A national conference focusing on "Science and the Catholic faith" is scheduled to take place in Louisville on March 6. The event, named the St. Albert Initiative, will be held at Bellarmine University from 8:45 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and is open to both high school students and the general public.

The program is organized by the Society of Catholic Scientists in collaboration with the Science and Religion Initiative of the McGrath Institute for Church Life at the University of Notre Dame. It aims to provide an opportunity for attendees to engage with experts in various scientific fields.

Dr. Stephen M. Barr, professor emeritus of theoretical particle physics at the University of Delaware and president of the Society of Catholic Scientists, along with Dr. Christopher Baglow, director of the Science & Religion Initiative at the McGrath Institute, will deliver the opening address in Frazier Hall.

Throughout the day, over a dozen scientists are expected to give short talks and participate in one-on-one question sessions with attendees. Additionally, three theologians will contribute their perspectives during the event.

According to information available on mcgrath.nd.edu/, participants will have opportunities “to meet, eat with, and ask questions of Catholic scientists in many fields and at various stages of their careers.” A detailed schedule outlining different tracks for participants can also be found on this website.

The program includes a lightning round featuring discussions on topics such as “Evolution and the Catholic Faith,” “Is the Universe Fine-tuned for Life?” and “The History of Life in Deep Time.” There will also be time allocated for personal interactions between participants and presenters who specialize in diverse research areas.

Named after St. Albert the Great—a bishop known for his contributions as a scientist, philosopher, theologian, teacher, and patron saint—the initiative was established in 2021 and has been hosted across various locations nationwide.

Registration is free but must be completed by February 14 through the McGrath Institute's website.