Theology: Church Teaching on Evolution and Creation Study Guide

What is the definition of evolution?

The scientific theory that species came to be as they are by a gradual process of change and development over many years.

How do the roles of science and faith differ when exploring the universe?

Science seeks to explain the "how," whereas faith seeks to explain the "why." They are complementary, not opposites.

What is the Catholic Church's general position on evolutionary theory?

The Church does not oppose evolutionary theory in general, but rejects any aspect of a theory that contradicts a revealed truth of the faith.

What does the Church say is possible regarding the physical development of the human species?

The human species could have developed from previous biological forms under the guidance of God.

What does the Church say is possible regarding the development of the universe over time?

The universe could have evolved and developed gradually over time under the guidance of God.

What is polygenism?

The belief in many sets of original parents, implying that humans are not all descendants of Adam and Eve.

What is monogenism?

The belief that all human beings are descendants of one original set of parents (such as Adam and Eve).

Why does the Catholic Church reject polygenism?

It contradicts the revealed truth that all humans descend from an original set of parents and that Original Sin is inherited through that single lineage.

Which scripture passage supports monogenism and the transmission of Original Sin through one lineage?

Romans 5:12 ("therefore, just as through one person sin entered the world...").

Why does the Church reject the idea that God created the world out of pre-existing matter?

Because only God is eternal; saying matter pre-existed implies something co-existed eternally with God.

What does the phrase "ex nihilo" mean, and how does it apply to Creation?

It means "out of nothing," referring to how God created the entire universe without using pre-existing matter.

Which scripture passage reflects the spiritual truth of creation "ex nihilo"?

Genesis 1:2 ("the earth was without form and void").

Why does the Church reject the concept of the evolution of the human soul?

Because the soul is non-material (not made of matter) and cannot undergo physical changes over time; it is created uniquely by God at conception.

Which scripture passage highlights God directly bestowing the human soul?

Genesis 2:7 ("and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life").

What is the primary purpose of the Genesis creation story?

To convey spiritual truths rather than scientific truths.

What does biblical inerrancy mean in the context of the Genesis creation narrative?

All scripture is without error (inerrant) in matters of faith and spiritual truth, even if details are not scientifically literal.