Professor John Polkinghorne will begin a nationwide lecture tour on Monday 20 January 2003 at the International Study Centre of Canterbury Cathedral. His topic of his lecture is "Science, Christianity and the End of the World: Is there a destiny beyond death?"

On 29 April 2002, Professor Polkinghorne was awarded the prestigious Templeton Prize for Progress in Religion. Founded by Sir John Templeton in 1972, the prize is awarded annually is designed to encourage and honour those who advance spiritual matters.

John Polkinghorne resigned as Professor of Mathematical Physics from Cambridge University in 1979 in order to pursue theological studies. Since he was ordained priest in 1982, his extensive writings and lectures have consistently applied scientific habits to Christianity, resulting in a modern and compelling exploration of the faith. His approach to the fundamentals of Christian orthodoxy has brought him international recognition as a unique voice for understanding the Bible as well as evolving doctrine.

His decision to enter the priesthood led to wide-ranging discussions with theoretical physicists which became the foundation for the first of many books and other writings in which he grapples with issues of science and theology.

In 1997, Professor Polkinghorne was knighted for his distinguished service to science, religion, learning and medical ethics. On receiving the Templeton Prize he said, "I want to treat science and religion with great and equal seriousness. I see them as complementary to each other and not as rivals. The most important thing they have in common is that both believe there is a truth to be sought and found, a truth whose attainment comes through the pursuit of well-motivated belief."

By Albert H. Lee
chtoday_editor@chtoday.com