Where Was God on September 11?: A Scientist Asks a Ground Zero Pastor

Both sides of the issue of God's place in the events of 9/11 and in history as a whole are handled compassionately and civilly. The agnostic point of view is somewhat overshadowed by the Christian view in terms of sheer volume of commentary; however, this makes sense, since the pastor was actually ministering to the victims in NYC and has more first-hand experience with the disaster. Clearly, the two men like and respect each other, and neither shows disdain for the other's positions. Rather, both seem to exhibit a bemused lack of understanding for how the other could hold a view that is so out of touch with reality. It's pleasant to hear opposite poles behaving respectfully -- if only our politicians showed this sort of tolerance. This is a book that's inspirational without being Pollyannish. Even the agnostic position seems uplifting -- it's spirituality without religion, a sort of secular humanism without the snottiness that so often infects that position. And the priest manages to be a Christian without being an intolerant fanatic -- also more spiritual than religious. All and all, a refreshing experience.

This book is a conversation between two intelligent, sincere people, one who has faith, and one who has skepticism. They work together well, asking each other quesstions that are hard to answer. They both bring understanding and a desire to connect with others to the question of huge catastrophe. How could this be allowed; what possible good can be seen in the WTC disaster?3000 people died, but 26,000 were saved, and there was great heroism. More than that, people helped each other through hard times. This book helps us see the perspective of nine months later. It is great.

Imagine two kind, thoughtful, intelligent people sitting in your kitchen with you and trying to make sense out of a senseless event. This brief and moving book invites you, the reader, into the conversation of two such people, one of whom believes in a Christian God and one of whom does not. Science writer John Horgan says: "I can't accept the idea that there is some kind of divine intelligence underlying the way blessings and suffering are meted out in this world." And pastor Frank Geer says: "From my earliest memory to this day, I have always believed in Christianity. My faith says 'It's not luck. There is a God out there who's watching out for us.'"These two compassionate men do not try to argue each other out of their respective beliefs, but rather try to find the comfort in the values that each holds to offer to those who have suffered in the terrorist attacks on September 11--and in other tragic events. So, readers with a range of faiths can find some words here that will evoke responses of agreement, empathy, and even comfort.The book reads quickly and merits rereading. The format is that of an erudite conversation, and I found myself wanting to be a part of it. I found this to be a good book that also does good.