Who can join?

The S.O.Sc. is a dispersed society; we live apart, but share a discipline of prayer, gathering, and mindfulness.
Associate status is open to anyone committed to our Aims, bringing the church to science and science to the church and convicted that these questions are emotional, social, liturgical, and sacramental – as well as intellectual.

How do I join?

1) Talk to a member of the Society and find out about what we’re doing

2) Send in an application form to the Warden or Provincial Warden (in North America). [SOSc App][SOSc App-NAP]

3) The Warden may put you in touch with a member to explore what it means to be a member. Key questions include how joining can aid your ministry and the ministry of the society.

4) The Warden, in consultation with the Committee, will review your application.

5) If the Warden agrees you are a good fit, you will be accepted as an associate of the Society.

6) Associates seeking a deeper commitment may take on the Rule of Prayer for a year (at the time of an Annual Gathering) and become a Companion.

7) Companions meeting all other requirements, may apply to the Warden for full membership.

Who can become a Full Member?

Full Membership is open to those ‘holding authority’ in science and faith communities and willing to take on the Rule of Prayer. From our constitution:

a. A Member shall have held authority in a Christian Church for a period of at least three years.

1. 1. 1. Ordination to the presbyterate or diaconate in churches with these offices constitutes sufficient evidence of pastoral authority.
      2. Other forms of ministry may also be accepted if they involve holding authority within a Christian community (e.g., theological lecturer, missionary, chaplain).
      3. A Member must be “under authority” and is expected to be in good standing within the relevant jurisdiction.

b. A Member shall have held authority in a scientific discipline for a period of at least three years.

1. 1. 1. 1. A doctorate in a natural or social science constitutes sufficient evidence of scientific authority, as does an MD, or other degree requiring 3-years’ work in a STEM field.
         2. Three years’ active work in science or engineering is equally acceptable, if it includes holding authority within a scientific community (e.g., engineer, nurse, technician, or full-time science teacher).
         3. A member must be “under authority” and is expected to be in good standing within the relevant jurisdiction.

Do I have to be an expert in the natural sciences?

Most of us have been involved in the natural sciences, but others come from social sciences, as well as engineering, medicine, and mathematics.

Expertise usually means a postgraduate degree (e.g., Ph.D., M.S., or B.Sc. Hons.) or at least three years working full time in the field. Several members have expertise as theorists and philosophers of science. Members have been called and qualified to share the wisdom of a larger scientific community.

Do I have to be an Anglican?

Our home is in the Anglican tradition, but members and associates span the Christian faith. We ask that you belong to a Trinitarian Christian community and are comfortable joining us in Holy Communion.

Presently, the Society includes Methodist, Lutheran, Reform, Presbyterian, Congregationalist, United Church of Christ, and Roman Catholic members and associates as well as Anglicans from around the world.

Do I have to be a priest?

Most members are priests and deacons, but others are pastors, ministers, and religious (brothers and sisters). Authority looks different in different churches, but generally we look for a recognized ministry in the Church, including a call discerned by the community, formal training, a recognized ministerial role, and a lifetime commitment.

There are no requirements for associates and scientist seminarians often join as associates with the intention of becoming full members when they are ordained.

Should I join?

We hope you’ll think about it. The Society is a wonderful place to share your experiences of living in the worlds of science and faith. We have found that our practices of daily prayer and regular retreat deepen our relationships with God and neighbor, making us better scientists and better ministers. If you have any questions, drop us a note and say hello. We love to talk with people who love the things we do.