As Christian teens choose science over the bible, a new curriculum seeks to bridge the divide

GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN – Feb. 8, 2022 – As studies show that Christian students feel a disconnect between science and faith, a new curriculum – Integrate, launched by BioLogos – offers 15 unit studies for Christian educators, parents, and ministry partners looking to equip the next generation of Christian leaders to be gracious, faithful, and informed voices on difficult questions raised by modern science and technology.

A study by Barna, which researches current faith trends, found that only 28 percent of all teens believe science and the Bible are complementary. Nearly half of churchgoing teens perceive that “the church seems to reject much of what science tells us about the world.”

“The Christian community has become increasingly divided over COVID-19, climate change, and the science of evolution,” said BioLogos President Deborah Haarsma. “With Integrate, we hope to dispel the notion of an inherent conflict between faith and science. Students today need to see science and faith working hand in hand.”

Content of the curriculum has been vetted by theologians, scientists, and educators, Haarsma said. It is designed to supplement science instruction or as a standalone faith/science curriculum. Integrate is appropriate for parents and teachers of Christian students from middle school to college or for adult study groups.

Topics covered in the Integrate curriculum’s 15 units include:

“Christian educators have a unique opportunity to help students make connections between their faith and what they are learning,” said Kara Kits, a science teacher at Grand Rapids Christian High School. “At times, that can seem daunting, especially in biology class. Integrate is a great resource that makes my job easier.”

Integrate units are available now and can be purchased individually or as a bundle at BioLogos.org/Integrate.

BioLogos “explores God’s Word and God’s World to inspire authentic faith for today.” The non-profit organization reaches millions each year through its website and public events. BioLogos was launched by Dr. Francis Collins in 2009 upon the success of his book, The Language of God, in which he told the story of his journey from atheism to Christian belief. Collins was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in November 2007 and received the National Medal of Science in 2009. In 2020, he was elected as a Foreign Member of the Royal Society (UK) and was also named the 50th winner of the Templeton Prize, which celebrates scientific and spiritual curiosity.

“It’s critical for students in home schools and Christian high schools to have access to accurate scientific information that is respectful of faith perspectives,” Collins said. “There is a relative lack of such materials right now and this is a pressing need for parents and teachers.” Adds Haarsma, “Integrate offers a path to young Christians that was never available before. We hope a new generation of students will be inspired by science and see it as a window into God’s work in creation.”