A team of researchers consisting of astronomers, physicists and cosmologists have identified a planet which they estimate contained key gases and atmospheric conditions necessary to support life form. While the scientists are doubtful about life form currently (due to its orbit around a dying star), signs indicate that life form preceeded that of Earth by several billion years. The planet is estimated to be at least 12.7 billion years old and located approximately 7,200 light years from Earth. Now this discovery, which will be published in the repsected journal Science today, is important for the communities of faith because it will compel us to think about the relationship between science and religion. AMEs, like most Christian denominations, accept the Genesis story about the origin of the Cosmos with Earth as the key planet of observation. The possibility of alternative life form from a different planet is not a point of consideration for the Genesis author. Personally, I welcome the possibility of "intelligent" life form from another species. It can't be any worse than the uninspired and anti-intellectual drivel used by some of my fellow Earthlings :-) QED

-- Anonymous, July 11, 2003

Answers

I read about that in a CNN article. Sounds interesting. Unfortunately there are people that will reject any truth (even if proven by science) that is not spelled out in the Bible. Solid proof of other life forms on other planets will definitely give some Christians something to think about. Logically, I just can't comprehend or accept that our God is so intelligent and creative enough to create the diversity of life on our planet, and yet not intelligent enough to create life elsewhere, past or present.

-- Anonymous, July 11, 2003

You know, I read the same article and was amazed at the certainty expressed by the author. Coming from a scientific background (Engineering), I found it hard to see how the author could be so certian of the events and times. Given plus or minus a billion years here and there, he could describe the events that led to the creation and destruction of this planet as if some of us were there or we had records of the event. I have a little trouble accepting such certainty of events long past. Nost of this data comes from the current Hubbel (sp) Telescope now in orbit with analysis using accepted norms of the scientific community, and I accept these also. BUT, the truth is that the basis for all those norms is FAITH. Now, I do not hold that we are to only ones, but the probability is that we are; but when Paul in Ephesians 2:7 speaks of "The ages to come" God will us his actions toward us as evidence of his grace and mercy, is he talking about other planets?

Be Blessed

-- Anonymous, July 11, 2003

I love the concept of science being faith based. I will ponder this furthur! I am wondering, however does anyone have any reason based on what the bible teaches to believe that God did not create this new planet and that there is not life (maybe) surviving there? I would like to say whatever turns out to be may God continue to bless us all.

-- Anonymous, July 11, 2003