Astrobiology, a New Chapter in the Book of Nature

The two books' metaphor (book of scripture and book of nature) provides an invitation for re-examining traditional Christian doctrine and practice when extra-terrestrial life is discovered. Christian churches are encouraged to refine their teachings in three areas: (1) anthropocentric creation; (2) the fall; and (3) imago Dei. The work Teilhard de Chardin lays the groundwork for these conversations. I propose that the discovery of extra-terrestrial life could precipitate a re-imagination of church doctrine in these areas. Furthermore, this conversion of thought will be valuable, in a practical sense, toward a renewed sense of gratitude and stewardship toward life on earth.