Exploring the Wonders of Nature: Over 40 Science Educators Unite to Delve Into a Biblical Understanding of Earth History

Story by Emeraude Victorin T.

Just before the NAD Educators Convention in Phoenix, over 40 passionate North American Division science teachers embarked on a journey with Geoscience Research Institute (GRI) scientists to explore the magnificent landscapes of the Petrified Forest National Park, the Grand Canyon, Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, and more. The goal of the field trip was to offer participants a firsthand experience, enhancing their appreciation and comprehension of geology and the history of the Earth. In doing so, these teachers are better prepared to integrate faith and science effectively in their classrooms. 

At the Petrified Forest National Park, teachers observed and were fascinated by the remains of trees that had turned to stone, revealing the wonders of natural transformation. Here they discussed the process of fossilization, how long it takes for wood to petrify, and how fossils paint a picture of past animal interactions and their environment. Walking amongst these fossilized tree logs provided an opportunity to discuss processes and sediment transport rates.

The trip through the breathtaking Grand Canyon offered a remarkable setting for discussions surrounding the origins debate and the geologic record. As they gazed into the vast chasm, the educators could not help but be humbled by the scale and complexity of the Earth’s geological history. They were presented with the unique opportunity to study the intricate rock formations that could be viewed through the lens of catastrophism or gradualism. They also observed footprints and other fossils embedded in the rock while hiking down into the Canyon on the South Kaibab Trail. 

After experiencing the wonders of nature and absorbing the information presented, the educators engaged in in-depth discussions and workshops by Drs. Ronny Nalin, Ben Clausen, Tim Standish, and Raul Esperante. They explored ways to effectively blend faith and science in their classroom teachings and were reminded to respect science while remaining faithful to God and the Bible.

“As a science teacher,” said Joel Shetler (pictured above), incoming Science Instructor at Spencerville Academy, “I wear two beautiful hats, one as a scientist, where I want to present evidence and help students learn how to research and determine what to do with that evidence, but also as a teacher in the Adventist community where I bring in the faith side of it. I show how the evidence relates to our beliefs but that ultimately, we must keep learning and researching.”

Armed with fresh perspectives and a commitment to nurturing their students’ spiritual and scientific growth, the participants seek to ignite a transformative spark in the education community. They are prepared to enrich the lives of their students by fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world and its Creator. With the lessons learned from this adventure, these educators are poised to guide the next generation on a path of holistic understanding, where faith and science complement each other in the quest for growth in knowledge and wisdom.

The mission of the Geoscience Research Institute of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists is to explore the natural world, seeking to develop and share an understanding of nature consistent with the biblical teaching as expressed in the Church’s statement of fundamental belief on creation. For more information on the resources we provide, please visit our website at www.grisda.org.