About the Author

Dr. John Biersdorf founded the Ecumenical Theological Seminary, now fully accredited, was an officer in the Marine Corps, pastored local churches, taught at Union Theological Seminary in New York City, and directed the Department of Ministry at the National
Council of Churches. He has published five books, including the Religious Book Club selection, Hunger for Experience: Vital Religious Communities in America.

Reviews

""While theological debates concerning the compatibility of science and religion have permeated Christian history, John Biersdorf rightly asks how the ever-expanding groups who understand themselves as 'spiritual but not religious' or among the 'nones' might encounter and interpret spirituality. Biersdorf's approach, which bridges scientific modes of inquiry as deep and broad as cosmology to psychology, refutes the notion that scientific and spiritual experience are anathema to one another."" --Stephen Butler Murray, President and Professor of Systematic Theology and Preaching, Ecumenical Theological Seminary ""John Biersdorf has spent a lifetime on the frontiers of religious and spiritual thought and practice. In this, his best work to date, he explores with the reader the emerging convergence of contemporary religious and scientific thought, honoring both streams."" --Alan W. C. Green, author; management consultant; retired foundation director; university professor ""A great book; the truth of what [Biersdorf's] talking about is universal, not limited to any parochial culture, not even Christian. [His] definition of spiritual knowing as being down in that centerless center before the world begins--that is fabulous."" --Richard C. Devor, retired Chaplain, Allegheny College, Emory University; Professor, Boston University ""It's just delicious. Such a lucid exposition of very difficult contemporary scientific concepts, and a wonderful synthesis with religious insights. It's just wonderful. Clear, cohesive, and logical without being clinical. [Biersdorf's] human warmth pervades [his] writing."" --Lois Robbins, social activist; retired university teacher; author