FOREWORD

The book you have before you began as a long period of ruminations Zelise had regarding the growing challenges to the concept of the existence of a loving Creator who is the First Source and Center of all things and beings. She wanted to boldly, yet simply, confront the challenge of unraveling the erroneous conclusions that separate the believer and nonbeliever, which often put them at loggerheads. Although she is a firm believer in the divinity of Jesus of Nazareth, she believed she could present her case in a way that would appeal to people of all religious backgrounds.

I know from personal experience that a sincere believer can often feel at a disadvantage when offering to the nonbeliever, atheist, or agnostic reasons for belief in the existence of God. The average layperson may not be able to adequately provide scientific evidence in support of their beliefs or present satisfactorily evidence to refute arguments of atheists that appear to be founded on true science. At one time, I fell into this category. But after many conversations and reading Zelise's book, I now have the confidence to respond to any attack on my faith or on the existence of the superlative Deity I refer to as God.

Zelise also wanted to find a way to get those on both sides of the issue to widen their perspective. She wanted to show how to engage in an honest self-examination to remove preconceived prejudices and take a critical look at the real issues that separate us and give rise to unnecessary contention. I believe she has achieved the goals she set out to accomplish through the pages of this book.

After reading this information, I believe the mature believer will have the confidence to engage in a fair and productive discussion on the real issues challenging the existence of God. I believe those who doubt the existence of God may find reasons to reexamine their conclusions. And for those who reject the belief in God, perhaps they will understand that the believer is not an impediment to progress and worldwide peace and happiness, and that there is no benefit in pursuing the futile attempt to erase God from modern life. Perhaps they will realize that atheists, agnostics, and believers share common objectives and can work together on achieving peace and goodwill to all of humanity for as long as we dwell together on this beautiful planet.

—Donald Clementin