Gaming the Gospels – Harmony Quest

Participants engage in interactive activities and discussions to deepen their understanding of how scientific inquiry and spiritual beliefs intersect.

GAMEPLAY
DISCOVERY STATIONS
Participants rotate through discovery stations featuring informative displays and hands-on activities related to scientific and religious concepts.

• Microscope exploration: participants use microscopes to examine microscopic organisms and biological structures, gaining insight into the intricacies of cellular life.
• Symbolism station: participants explore the dual role of symbols in science and religion. They analyse religious symbols like the cross and scientific symbols like mathematical equations, fostering creativity by creating their own symbols.

PUZZLE CHALLENGE
Participants solve puzzles combining scientific terms and religious ideas to promote reflection on the harmony between science and faith.

RIDDLES

• I am found in the heavens above, where stars and galaxies roam. I am also the unit of measure for time, marking moments and epochs. What am I? Answer: Light year
• I am a fundamental particle, elusive and small. Yet I hold the key to understanding the universe’s innermost workings. What am I? Answer: Quark
• I am a source of energy and warmth, bringing light to the world. Yet I am also a symbol of enlightenment and spiritual awakening. What am I? Answer: Sun
• I am caused by a highly exothermic chemical reaction taking place in a thin zone, but I also symbolise the Spirit. What am I? Answer: Flame

DIALOGUE CIRCLES
Facilitators lead open discussions to encourage participants to share perspectives on the relationship between science and faith.

• How do you perceive the role of scientific discoveries in shaping religious beliefs or interpretations?
• Can you identify any instances where scientific advancements have complemented or challenged religious teachings or traditions?
• In what ways do you think individuals reconcile personal beliefs in science and faith, especially when they seem to conflict?

EXPERIMENT ZONES
Participants conduct simple experiments to explore scientific principles and their connections to spiritual beliefs.

• Water and light experiment: participants observe the refraction of light through a glass of water, discussing how the bending of light relates to spiritual concepts like enlightenment or clarity of thought.
• Candle flame experiment: participants observe and compare the behaviour of candle flames in different environments (eg still air, blowing air, near a source of heat). They can discuss how the flame’s behaviour symbolises spiritual concepts such as vitality, resilience, or the presence of a divine force.

REFLECTION JOURNALS
Participants use journals to record insights and reflections on their journey of discovery throughout the game.

• How have your perspectives on the relationship between science and spirituality evolved throughout the game? Reflect on any moments or activities that particularly influenced your thinking.
• Consider the symbols, puzzles and experiments encountered during the game. How do these elements highlight the interconnectedness of scientific principles and spiritual beliefs?
• In what ways do you envision applying the insights gained from this game to your daily life or academic pursuits? How might you integrate a deeper understanding of the interplay between science and faith into your future endeavours?