Vatican Astronomer NOT Sacked for Evolutionary Views

Earlier this week, the Daily Mail reported that Father George Coyne had been sacked from heading the Vatican Observatory because of his strong favorable views regarding biological evolution. As faithful readers of H&R will recall, I blogged that item and worried that there were other signs that the Roman Catholic hierarchy is backing off earlier statements of support for the science behind biological evolution.

Now Anthony Dick over at National Review Online's Corner blog reprints an email in which Father Coyne rebuts the claims made by the Daily Mail, saying that it was his own idea to step down, not Pope Benedict XVI's. In the meantime, the Pope has held a seminar on the topic of biological evolution. It will be interesting to see what type of statements come out of that seminar later this year.

I apologize for passing along misinformation (it's better to eat crow while it's hot). In the meantime, let's wish Father Coyne a long and well-deserved rest.

Thanks for the heads up to David White.

Comments

[Charles Oliver]

You may have seen this already. If not, FYI:

http://www.cathnews.com/news/609/36.php

[His Howliness the Puppy Pope R]

I apologize for passing along misinformation (it's better to eat crow while it's hot).

Very good, Ron. I would like you to reflect on this and say three Howl Marys as your penance. Now go, my pup, and do your best to sin no more.

[crimethink]

Ron, thanks for being a stand-up guy and admitting your mistake. I won't say I'm praying for you, but I can at least guarantee that I'm not praying against you.

[AC]

Those not responsible for the non-sacking have not been sacked.

[Rick Barton]

Ron:

As faithful readers of H&R will recall

Very punny!