For the past 50 years, the Canadian Scientific and Christian Affiliation has facilitated discussions about science and Christian faith in Canada. As part of our 50th-anniversary celebrations, we asked 50 CSCA members to comment on their personal connections to science, scripture, and Canadian scenery. We will share these contributions throughout 2023 in the hope that you will find them engaging and encouraging.
CSCA member of the week: Sam Pimentel, Professor of Mathematical Sciences at Trinity Western University.
1. Why did you choose your scientific discipline?
Mathematics was my favourite subject at school and this was what I choose to study at university. After graduating I moved into ocean modelling for my Ph.D. and followed this with postdoctoral research in ice sheet modelling. I wanted to use the power and elegance of mathematics to better understand the beautiful world that God has gifted us.
2. What is one of your favourite Bible verses and why?
The priestly blessing (Numbers 6:24-26):
“The LORD bless you and keep you;
the LORD make his face shine on you and be gracious to you;
the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.”
Such a beautiful prayer, I find its threefold structure so elegant. This remarkable, very ancient blessing, continues to be comforting and meaningful in expressing God’s love and care for us.
3. Which Canadian city or landscape do you love exploring and why?
I love the Sunshine Coast in BC. The ocean, mountains, and lakes, so my great places to explore and amazing wildlife to see.