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Messiah University
Messiah University

God & Science

Central Pennsylvania Forum for Religion and Science

The Central Pennsylvania Forum for Religion and Science, under the direction of Dr. Richard Schaeffer, Professor of Chemistry, sponsors a variety of events, all intended to help promote better understanding of religion and science-including medicine and social science-in this region. We continue the university's established tradition of hosting speakers who represent diverse religious and disciplinary perspectives. Most events take place on our campus, but some are held in other locations.

All of our events are announced here. PLEASE BOOKMARK THIS PAGE FOR FUTURE REFERENCE. Information about each event is also sent by email upon request. To add your name to our list, or to update your email address, contact Dr. Schaeffer at rschaeff@messiah.edu.

All of our events are open to the public-indeed, it is the people of Central Pennsylvania whom we seek to serve. Most events are free; any exceptions will be clearly announced. Our budget comes mostly from contributions. If you wish to donate to the Forum, please contact Dr. Schaeffer.

Events for Fall 2026

Lectures
David Foster Lecture
Tuesday, November 17 at 7:00 pm in Alexander Auditorium (Frey 110)

Please join us as the Central Pa Forum for Religion and Science at Messiah University welcomes Dr. David Foster, Professor of Biology and Environmental Science at Messiah University, to deliver a talk entitled, “The Human Soul, Animal Soul and Our Biblical Place in the Science of Creation Care.” 

David Foster
Dr. Foster’s life-long interests focus on understanding the world around us and human interfaces with that environment; particularly, how we can improve those relationships. Explorations in these pursuits have led him all over the world, into a variety of research projects, and to a great appreciation for the role of indigenous peoples’ ecological knowledge. It has also led Dr. Foster to pursue work in aquaponics and the use of plant biostimulants derived from processing biowaste with earthworms.

Discussion Groups
All meetings will be held from 12pm-1pm in Kline 306

October 13, 2026
November 3, 2026
November 17, 2026
December 1, 2026