The Rev. Michael Dowd will offer a free, 2-hour presentation "Thank God for Evolution" on Tuesday May 1 from 7 to 9pm at Allegheny UU Church, 1110 Resaca Place, Pittsburgh, PA 15212 .

In this richly illustrated talk, he will explore the most common "evolutionary epiphanies" or "religious awakenings" that people experience when the discoveries of mainstream science are presented in ways that integrate all the threads into a meaningful, sacred, inspiring, and thoroughly up-to-date creation story. The talk will also explore these questions:

• Is it possible to use "God-language" in a way that theists, atheists, and pantheists can all truly celebrate?
• What exciting new light can this perspective offer on age-old questions about human nature and human destiny?
• How can an understanding of evolutionary brain science and evolutionary psychology assist us in living happier, healthier, more on-purpose lives and having more satisfying, fulfilling relationships?
• Finally, How does "The Great Story" open the future to hope and inspired action, and how can it energize and support our efforts to further the work of peace, justice, and environmental sustainability?

Rev. Dowd and his wife, science writer Connie Barlow, are UUs who, during the past 5 years, have delivered sermons and other presentations at more than 200 UU churches and many other venues, as well. Their itinerant ministry is featured as the cover story in the Spring 2006 issue of UU World.