Science is under attack by evangelical Christian groups while science is used by atheistic groups as ammunition against religion.  Even the Texas State Board of Education has involved itself in the science-faith “conflict”.  Yet, the Old and New Testaments clearly indicate that the study of nature teaches us about God.  In fact, Scripture and natural theology complement each other if we open our minds to the message of the original texts and God’s works of nature; science can reinforce our faith.   

This week's topic: Understanding Biblical Patients: Medical History Of King Saul 

After reviewing the health of the people of ancient Israel and the portrayal of medicine in the Bible, we will consider how a modern understanding of medicine and disease can illuminate Biblical stories.  As an example, we will review the tragic story of King Saul considering the possible medical and psychiatric issues at work in his life.  Based upon our assessment, we will then re-examine the tale through the medical lens to better understand Saul’s behavior and that of those around him.  

This 4-week lecture series is led by David Katerndahl M.A, M.D.

Although trained as a family physician, Dr. Katerndahl received his B.S. degree in Honors Biology with distinction, M.A. degree in Education, and his M.D. degree from the University of Illinois and the Ohio State University.  He spent most of my professional career as the Director of Research in the Department of Family and Community Medicine at the University of Texas Health Science Center.  In addition to studying Biology, he taught Genetics during college, graduating with honors and distinction in the Honors Biology Program.  In addition, he was an ordained elder in the Presbyterian Church and served in the Adult Education Ministry with over 10 years of experience in teaching on the compatibility between science and faith at Covenant Presbyterian Church and the SoL Center at University Presbyterian Church in San Antonio, and the Mo-Ranch Presbyterian Retreat.  He has spoken annually to medical audiences concerning spirituality and health issues for over 10 years.  Finally, he led the Spirituality and Health Research Team for three years during its research activities.  Internationally, he served on the Board of Directors for the North American Primary Care Research Group, on two editorial boards, and as reviewer for numerous scientific journals.  In addition to publishing over 150 medical articles and the book Directing Research in Primary Care (Radcliffe), he has received funding from the National Science Foundation, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, and the Health Resources and Services Administration as well as the Presbyterian Association for Science, Technology and Christian Faith.