Can you help a graduate student in science with a dilemma?

[spanmexguy]

I am a 29 yr old graduate student in physics and since I was a kid have loved everything having to do with the universe. I am also Catholic and at times have found it difficult to reconcile my faith with my studies. I especially found it difficult when I was younger. I now have learned to “compartmentalize” and have my faith without it overlapping into my science and vice versa. However, I find myself in the dilemma that although I love astronomy and see myself becoming a professor and/or researcher some day, I feel like I am not helping anyone with what I am studying. I mean, studying black holes, supernovas, etc.- how are these things going to glorify God and help other people?

The thing is I LOVE studying these things, and even if I wouldn’t get paid to study these things, I would still study them and love to talk about them.

I guess that is my true question: is it wrong to pursue these kinds of studies and how can I help people and glorify God through them?

God Bless to all!

 

[Fr.Vincent_Serpa]

Hi,

Learning the truth of what God has created is not a waste. It contributes to everyone’s knowledge. I don’t see why you have to compartmentalize. Christianity is not at war with science - if the scientist is honest. Truth cannot war with itself. Some great scientists were Catholic. Catholics, after all, came up with the scientific method! By all means, use your talents for the Lord’s glory.

Fr. Vincent Serpa, O.P.