Pope receives prize, calls for more dialogue between science, faith

Published: 2004-12-07

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope John Paul II called for greater dialogue between science and faith as he received a prestigious Erice "Science for Peace" Prize. Each year, members of the Switzerland-based World Federation of Scientists vote for a person of culture and science who has played a leading role in promoting and implementing the ideals of protecting human life from war and promoting "a culture of love." This year the Erice "Science for Peace" Prize, which includes a large cash award, was presented to Pope John Paul Dec. 7 in the Vatican by members of the federation. The pope told them he would be donating the prize money as scholarships to needy students from the developing world. The amount of the prize was not immediately disclosed. In his address, the pope asked that "the international scientific community, public institutions and people of good will" work together to "assure humanity a future of hope and peace." He asked that God especially help Christians who are dedicated to scientific research "offer a clear evangelical testimony and foster dialogue between science and faith."

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