On April 1, 2008, the students of the Lutheran Student Fellowship are hosting an intelligent design conference in the UW—Milwaukee student union's Wisconsin Room from 7-9 p.m.  (hors d'oeuvres will be provided). The student union is located at 2200 E. Kenwood Blvd.

Dr. Angus Menuge (chair of philosophy at Concordia University Wisconsin and author of Agents Under Fire) and Dr. Paul Nelson (PhD in philosophy from University of Chicago and whose thesis will be published as On Common Descent, vol. 16 in the University of Chicago department of ecology and evolution's "Evolutionary Monographs" series) will engage the discussion about intelligent design vs. Darwinism.

The question of the origin of the universe has been asked through the ages. The ancients answered with pagan gods, the Enlightenment answered with the primacy of the human mind (Rousseau) and the 20th century answered with Darwinism. In fact, some even religiously argue that science cannot point to an intelligent designer as the Creator. “Even if all the data points to an intelligent designer, such a hypothesis is excluded from science because it is not naturalistic” (Todd, Scott. Nature 401 [6752]:423, Sept. 30, 1999).

Why does it matter if an intelligent designer created the universe? If macro-evolution merely resolved itself into humanity, we may excuse many atrocities. Fetuses may be used for science rather than allowing them to mature. Our bodies may be used for whatever purpose we desire. The older generation may be moved to a "better" situation for all of us when they cause undue stress. Only the fittest survive! If an intelligent designer created the universe, however, we must conclude that this intelligent designer does not desire these things.

As Lutherans, we know this designer as the Triune God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. We know that Christ came in the flesh to redeem us. Yet the secular world often does not even admit the existence of a higher or more intelligent being than themselves. The discussion presented at this conference on the University of Wisconsin—Milwaukee campus will be engaging and useful for anyone. All are invited and encouraged to attend.

For more information e-mail lmc_vicar@yahoo.com or call Luther Memorial Chapel at (414) 332-5732.