The Commons Project

The Commons Project

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Office of Spiritual Life, DePauw University
Greencastle, Indiana

This initiative developed as an outgrowth of a faculty/staff book study group with membership including scientists, theologians, and informed laypersons. The project boasts open membership inviting faculty, staff, students, local public school teachers and professionals, and members of the local community. Project members engage in study, discussion, scholarly research, lectures, and colloquia. Outreach invites the academic and surrounding communities to join and contribute to monthly evening meetings exploring topics such as: evolution, process theology, spirituality and health, bioethics, neuroscience and psychology, and science and world religions. Core group members meet for weekly lunch meetings to review and discuss current books, articles, and radio programs in the field. Each semester, the society hosts an open public event to highlight the research of a group member, video, or documentary focused on a subject in science and faith. Exceptional student papers will also be presented in public forum. The major event each year brings a national figure for a panel discussion and seminar session with selected students and members. A website and email updates complement group efforts. DePauw University and the Office of Spiritual Life provide matching funds.