Catholic Views On Creation
Catholic views on creationism have undergone change over time. Roman Catholicism, along with most branches of Christianity, generally accepted a literal interpretation of creation is presented in the book of Genesis in the Bible throughout most of its history. In more recent times however, based upon viewing increased scientific thought and discovery, the position of a literal reading of Genesis became less important.
Evolution
By the middle of the twentieth century, Pope Pius XII took the position that the theory of evolution did not go against Church teachings. This view was reaffirmed by Pope John Paul II who went even further in 1996 when he noted that the theory of evolution is "more than a hypothesis" and that "truth cannot contradict truth," meaning that science and a belief in God can harmoniously coexist. [1]
Intelligent Design
According to the director of the Vatican observatory, Father George V. Coyne, a Catholic and a theistic scientist, the theory of intelligent design belittles the power of God to nurture a creation over a long period of time carefully groomed and watched by God continuously. Coyne agrees with John Paul's statement that evolution is a "fundamental church teaching" and should be treated as such. The view of Coyne in rejecting intelligent design is not universal in Catholicism. For instance, the Cardinal archbishop of Vienna has spoken out in support of intelligent design. The Vatican itself has never taken an official position on the issue.[2]
