"In the Beginning..." is a set of four small-group discussion guides designed to allow each individual to identify what he or she believes concerning the creation of the world and the origins of humankind. Each leaflet in the set attempts to present clearly and fairly one of four primary points of view. Study of all four leaflets should enable participants to articulate their own position as well as better understand the position of others.

"In the Beginning . . ." is intended to promote discussion and learning and does not reflect the official position of The United Methodist Church or the General Board of Discipleship.

"In the Beginning . . ." is produced in accordance with Resolution 337 to the 2000 General Conference of The United Methodist Church, which "directs the General Board of Discipleship, working within its own structure, to develop study materials for all levels of the church which bring all the theories of evolution and creation to the churches in a manner which will compare emerging areas of compatibility and areas yet unresolved in a reconciling approach to the relationship involved."

In the Beginning . . . Introduction and Suggestions for Use
	"In the Beginning . . ." is intended to promote discussion and learning and does not reflect the official position of The United Methodist Church or the General Board of Discipleship.
In the Beginning . . . Introduction and Suggestions for Use (in pdf)
	Please note that you must have Adobe Acrobat Reader (a free download from Adobe) to read pdf files.
Biblical Creationists: What We Believe and Affirm
	Key Belief Points: The Bible is the inerrant Word of God. God is the author and creator of all that exists. The earth and life on earth are less than 10,000 years old. Human beings are created in God's image and are not the result of evolutionary process.
Biblical Creationists: What We Believe and Affirm (pdf file)
	Please note that you must have Adobe Acrobat Reader (a free download from Adobe) to read pdf files.
Evolution Scientists: What We Believe and Affirm
	Key Belief Points: Science explains everything (or has the potential to explain everything). There is no need for God in the discussion of creation. There is no evidence for God. Natural laws and processes account fully for our world.
Evolution Scientists: What We Believe and Affirm (in pdf)
	Please note that you must have Adobe Acrobat Reader (a free download from Adobe) to read pdf files.
Scientific Theists: What We Believe and Affirm
	Key Belief Points: Science and religious faith are compatible. God is the creative energy behind all that exists. God is the ultimate origin behind all other origins. All natural laws are governed by the creative energy of God's Spirit.
Scientific Theists: What We Believe and Affirm (in pdf)
	Please note that you must have Adobe Acrobat Reader (a free download from Adobe) to read pdf files.
Religious Rationalists: What We Believe and Affirm
	Key Belief Points: Science and religion are separate but equal inquiries into life. Science seeks facts, while religion seeks meaning. God cannot be proved or disproved. Science and religion both provide value in our lives.
Religious Rationalists: What We Believe and Affirm (in pdf)
	Please note that you must have Adobe Acrobat Reader (a free download from Adobe) to read pdf files.