Is it possible to experience divine moments in everyday occurrences such as a having conversation with a loved one, sharing a meal with family or while learning to ride a bike for the first time? Point Loma Nazarene University journalism professor Dean Nelson tackles these questions in a new book that is gaining national media attention, “God Hides in Plain Sight: How to See the Sacred in a Chaotic World.” “If we’re paying attention, we can see God in all the details and all the nitty gritty in our lives,” Nelson said. In a modern twist to an old subject, Nelson said he takes the seven sacraments of the ancient church and applies them to everyday life. According to Nelson, having a deep conversation can be like experiencing the sacrament of confession. Nelson also compares the simple act of sharing a meal with a “depth and richness that is more than just quelling hunger” to the sacrament of the Eucharist. According to Catholic catechism teachings, the sacrament of the Eucharist brings people closer to God through consumption of bread and wine representing the “body and blood” of Jesus Christ. Nelson said his journalism background has helped him tackle tough religious issues. He is currently working on a book about the life of English physicist and theologian John Polkinghorne. Polkinghorne is a particle physicist turned priest who has written much about religion and science. Religion and science are two disciplines that do not need to be “hostile” to one another, Nelson said. Because religion and science are two areas traditionally at odds, scientists usually don’t approach religious topics with the same intellectual work applied to the sciences. “Journalists … don’t treat faith issues with the same kind of rigor as they would questioning a politician,” Nelson said. Author of several books about spirituality, faith and personal empowerment, Nelson uses his journalistic training to anecdotally examine issues of faith and religion. He has a Ph.D. in journalism from Ohio University in Athens, Ohio, and occasionally writes for various publications, including the New York Times and USA Today online. Nelson started the journalism program at Point Loma Nazarene University in 1984. He hosts the “Writers Symposium by the Sea,” which takes place on the university campus in March. The symposium includes interviews with renowned writers from around the world to showcase and encourage good writing. Nelson will be signing his new book at Berean Christian Store, 8807 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., on Saturday, Dec. 5 from 1 to 3 p.m. For more information and to read Nelson’s blog, visit www.deannelson.net.
