Frequently Asked Questions

What is PASTCF's general purpose?

1. To challenge and assist the Presbyterian Church (USA), at all levels, to study, understand, discuss, and act on the implications of science and technology as they affect the theology, worship, practice, and moral actions of the church.
2. To challenge and assist Presbyterian scientists, engineers, and other technical professionals to study, understand, discuss, and act on the implications of the Reformed theological tradition for their scientific and technical vocations.

What are PASTCF's objectives?

1. To provide for the exchange of ideas and information among the members and to develop programs as appropriate to the interest of the members and the needs of the church.
2. To assist the membership in providing leadership for educational opportunities in congregations and presbyteries and to encourage the formation of groups for study and action.
3. To recognize scientific and technological professions as expressions of Christian vocation.
4. To provide a national forum for discussion and exchange of ideas and information in the church.
5. To encourage Presbyterian educational institutions to provide educational opportunities for students and faculty and continuing education for pastors in the area of science, technology, and the Christian faith.
6. To cooperate with other Christian communities and associations with similar purposes.
7. To sponsor national, regional, or local conferences.

How do we start local chapters of PASTCF?

See the paper on local chapters on the Resources page.

What are some of PASTCF's major activities?

1. We publish the newsletter SciTech† quarterly.
2. We maintain the Association's website, <www.pastcf.org>.
3. We provide members with a brief bibliography and make available a variety of other resources.
4. We offer leadership to congregations, presbyteries, synods, and other groups on matters of science and faith.
5. We sponsor a luncheon with speaker at each General Assembly.
6. We have a booth in the exhibit hall at each General Assembly and at other appropriate conferences.
7. We encourage the formation of local groups and Chapters.
8. We recognize up to five scientists, science educators, or technical professionals each year through the Daniel W. Martin "Science as a Christian Vocation" program.
9. We cooperate with and learn from other Christian communities through membership in the Ecumenical Round Table on Science, Technology and the Church.
10. In cooperation with the Ecumenical Roundtable, or alone, we periodically sponsor regional or national conferences.

Who may belong to PASTCF?

All members and clergy of the Presbyterian Church (USA) are invited to join this effort to help our church take better account of developments in science and technology. You may do so by completing the application below and returning it along with your annual dues to the address indicated. Persons who are not members of the Presbyterian Church are eligible for Affiliate Membership and will be afforded all the rights and privileges of the Association save the right to vote.

What do members receive?

1. The current Membership Directory.
2. The Association Newsletter, SciTech†.
3. Periodic resource mailings including the bibliography and a catalog of other available resources.
4. Announcements of the formation of member interest groups.

What is the "Science as Christian Vocation" Award?

The Daniel W. Martin "Science as Christian Vocation" recognition is awarded annually to one to five persons whose vocation in science, technology, or science education is clearly understood as a Christian vocation. More details and application forms are available on the Vocation page of this website.