The Theology students saw a heated debate at Manchester University between William Lane Craig, Christian philosopher and Oxford Chemist, and the outspoken atheist, Dr Peter Atkins.

 

The debate formed part of Dr Craig’s ‘Reasonable Faith’ tour and was a complete sell out. The topic ties in with the A level course as students study the question of God’s existence as one of the key themes in their upper sixth year.

 

The two academics debated a wide range of topics from what explains the existence of the universe, the existence of morality and the resurrection of Jesus. Both Craig and Atkins made reference to the most up to date scientific theories to reinforce their arguments. There were some heated exchanges as each speaker passionately defended their position.

Loreto student Faith Biddle commented: “The debate really made me think about all the arguments I had leant in Theology. It was great to get a taste for university debates in the future.” Theology teacher Mr Leach said “It was great that Loreto theologians who took time out of the half term break to attend this fascinating debate about the BIG question.”

“The real importance of events like this is that they give our students a taste of the subject at a very high academic level which can be both highly informative and inspiring,” he added.

 

In addition the A2 Theology students have been grappling with big ideas of their own with an essay writing competition which focuses on one of the key aspects of their studies; is there anything beyond the physical world?

 

Students showed a great knowledge and understanding of the scholars that we study, from the ancient Greek Plato with up to modern evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins. They related these to concepts such as the soul, life after death, the existence of God and the limitations of human knowledge.

 

Theology teacher Mr Leach said the winning essays included incredibly insightful and well argued personal opinions that were truly impressive considering they have been studying the subject for less than two years.

 

Pictured above is David Stevenson, competition winner, and Thomas McEwan, runner up, looking delighted with their certificates and prize money that will come in very handy for their Christmas shopping.