Contemplating Creation

Students on the New England High School Summer Program woke Wednesday morning to a heavy fog, refreshed and ready to go after last night’s excitement. But after they showered and got dressed, the fog lifted, and they headed to their first — and only — class of the day.

The programmers quickly got into classroom mode, delving into the first 10 chapters of the Book of Genesis, which covers Creation, the story of Cain and Abel, and the Flood. Discussions focused on the significance of the two accounts of Creation, with some even comparing the Biblical description to those given by the pre-Socratics. Sections also pondered the meaning of “goodness,” and many students grappled with the complex question of free will, contemplating how the choices made by Adam and Eve could coexist with God’s foreknowledge of the Fall.

Finished with class, many students attended the midday Mass and then went to the Commons for lunch. There, the prefects announced a kayaking trip on the Connecticut River for the afternoon, which was met with vigorous applause and cheer!

We will have photos from the adventure — plus a recap of tonight’s activities — in tomorrow morning’s Summer Program Blog post!