Great Catholic Scientists

Two leading scientists from the Vatican Observatory explore profound questions of faith and science through the lives of contributions of great Catholic scientists. Tracing back across 1,000 years of history, you’ll reflect on the role of faith in science with Dr. Guy Consolmagno, SJ, nicknamed the “Pope’s Astronomer,” and his friend and colleague Dr. Michelle Francl-Donnay, an award-winning professor of chemistry at Bryn Mawr College. Beginning with a brief overview of the history of science, Consolmagno and Francl-Donnay highlight Catholic contributions to medicine, mathematics, computer science, astronomy, and chemistry before arriving at the question of our place in the cosmos. While some of the figures they discuss, like Gregor Mendel, are famous for their discoveries, Consolmagno and Francl-Donnay introduce you to a host of fascinating Christians whose work you may be less familiar with: St. Hildegard of Bingen, a beloved mystic and visionary who is also considered a pioneer in natural history; Albert the Great, a Doctor of the Church and patron saint of scientists; a pair of popes who trained as scientists before their election as Bishop of Rome; and Mary Poonen Lukose, the first woman Surgeon General of India in 1938. The conversational format of Great Catholic Scientists offers you a wealth of insight without the stuffiness of a traditional lecture. Muse on the interplay of faith and discovery with this pair of accomplished scientists and teachers. This course is part of the Learn25 Collection.