‘Thank God for evolution'

Washingtonville — The Rev. Michael Dowd and his wife, Connie Barlow, will present a free workshop, “Thank God for Evolution! How Science and Religion Are Spurring Each Other to Greatness,” at 10:45 a.m. on Sunday Nov. 19, at St. Anne’s Episcopal Church, 175 East Main St., Washingtonville. The Unitarian Universalist Congregation at Rock Tavern is sponsoring the workshop. Due to a recent fire, Sunday services are now being held at St. Anne’s. Another program will be held from 7 to 9:15 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 21, also at St. Anne’s. The Rev. Dowd will explore these questions: Is it possible to use “God-language” in a way that theists, atheists, and pantheists can all truly celebrate? What exciting new light can this perspective offer on age-old questions about human nature and human destiny? How can an understanding of evolutionary brain science and evolutionary psychology assist us in living happier, healthier, more on-purpose lives and having more satisfying, fulfilling relationships? People of all faiths and no faith are invited to these events. Michael Dowd is a former United Church of Christ pastor, and Connie Barlow is a classical humanist. Married in June 2001, they have lived entirely on the road since April 2002, teaching in schools and colleges and preaching in churches a message that embraces both science and religion. They offer a resolution to the debate over evolution and intelligent design. For more information, visit www.thegreatstory.org/what_is.html.