We received more than 200 entries for our science writing contest, but we have three standout pieces that are all being published in print issues of Christianity Today, as well as a few finalists that will be published online.
The entrants wowed us: from beautiful writing on songbirds and fish eyeballs to haunting pieces on viruses, lyme disease, and aging. And we learned a few things, too. We learned about mirror neurons, lunar soil, and absolute zero. We especially enjoyed hearing about the scientific work that’s being done out there by Christians. There are a lot of articulate people thinking about faith and science out there!
The first place winner is Jennifer McNutt for “The Clergy Behind the Science as We Know It” published in the December issue. Second place goes to Paul Arnold for “When the Gift of Intelligence Becomes the Burden of Alzheimer’s” in the January/February issue. Third place goes to Douglas Estes for “Our Blood Exposes Our Physical—and Spiritual—Health,” which is in the March print issue. Awards included $6,000 for first place, $3,000 for second place, and $2,000 for third place.
Finalists’ essays will be posted here as soon as they publish.
The Clergy Behind Science as We Know It
Enlightenment-era pastors didn’t oppose modern science. They helped advance it.
When the Gift of Intelligence Becomes the Burden of Alzheimer’s
The strength of human intellect also makes it fragile.
Our Blood Exposes Our Physical—and Spiritual—Health
When we are sick and need to know what can make us whole again, there is no other fount we know.
Can Pain Cultivate Empathy in Us?
Research suggests yes, and even the unlikely can grow. But our suffering Savior is the best model.
Behaving Like Children or Chimps?
Psychology study offers insight on why Jesus calls us to be like children.
Jesus Showed Up in My Anatomy Lab
What dissecting bodies taught me about the passion story and life after death.
