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The Independent reports that Pope Francis, speaking at the Pontifical Academy of Sciences, has declared that the theories of evolution and the Big Bang are real.
“When we read about Creation in Genesis, we run the risk of imagining God was a magician, with a magic wand able to do everything. But that is not so,” said Francis.
“He created human beings and let them develop according to the internal laws that he gave to each one so they would reach their fulfillment."
Francis explained that both scientific theories were not incompatible with the existence of a creator – arguing instead that they “require it”.
“The Big Bang, which today we hold to be the origin of the world, does not contradict the intervention of the divine creator but, rather, requires it. Evolution in nature is not inconsistent with the notion of creation, because evolution requires the creation of beings that evolve.”
Experts say the Pope's comments put an end to the “pseudo theories” of creationism and intelligent design that some argue were encouraged by his predecessor, Benedict XVI who spoke out against taking Darwin too far.
(Score: 2) by Sir Garlon on Wednesday October 29 2014, @12:04PM
Depends whom you ask, but as far as I can tell from church, Christians broadly agree that the Gospels (the books about the life and teaching of Jesus) are to be treated as historical fact. So when for example there is a direct quote from Jesus in the Bible, that's what (we believe) Jesus said and he wanted the world to hear it.
What those words mean is still subject to interpretation. For example, where Jesus refers to Jehovah as his father, was he being literal or figurative? Early in the history of Christianity there was a debate about that, and the "figurative" side lost.
Some denominations of Christianity are very literal and think that all books of the Bible are historical fact. That is where the rejection of evolution comes into play, because it conflicts with the story of Genesis. I would point out that the two largest branches of Christianity worldwide, the Roman Catholic Church and the Anglican Communion, don't subscribe to the literalist view and have not done for many years.
[Sir Garlon] is the marvellest knight that is now living, for he destroyeth many good knights, for he goeth invisible.