Professor R. J. (Sam) Berry 1934 – 2018

Julia Cameron  |  UK & Ireland
Date posted:  1 Jun 2018
Share Add       
Professor R. J. (Sam) Berry 1934 – 2018

Sam Berry came to faith in Christ through Iwerne camps, while at Shrewsbury School. From his Cambridge days as an undergraduate in natural sciences, he took a clear stand as a Christian, arguing that a model of evolution should not hinder a belief in a Creator.

In 1975 he published his first book, Adam and the Ape. From here he became known as a leading apologist for theistic evolution. In 1974, he had been appointed as Professor of Genetics at University College London, a chair he would hold until 2000. The tribute from UCL described him as ‘a massive figure in evolutionary and ecological genetics, biodiversity and conservation biology’ and noted his Christian faith. Sam was a man of immense output. His books included academic titles in biological science and Christian apologetics. He was generous with his time, accepting many speaking engagements, and lending his name and presence to a range of initiatives in the area of ecology. While eminent in his field, he wore his achievement lightly.

Christians in Science

He was President of The Linnean Society, the British Ecological Society, the European Ecological Federation, and of Christians in Science. He was a founding member of the A Rocha Council of Reference, always actively interested in its work. In 1996 he received the Templeton UK Award for ‘sustained advocacy of the Christian faith in the world of science’. In addition, he served on General Synod for several terms, from its inception in 1970.

Share
< Previous article| UK & Ireland| Next article >
Read more articles by Julia Cameron >>
Reviews
Bleeding for Jesus: some initial thoughts

Bleeding for Jesus: some initial thoughts

What became known as ‘Iwerne camps’ began 90 years ago, bringing profound benefit to the church. They were founded by …

Features
John Stott - what you should know

John Stott - what you should know

The centenary of John Stott’s birth falls on 27 April 2021. As he died ten years ago, his name won’t …

Give a subscription

🎁 Get 20% off a subscription for a friend this Christmas!

Tell me more

Subscribe

Enjoy our monthly paper and full online access

Find out more