Author Description

NO MALE, NO SEX - NOT A PROBLEM Even without a sexual partner, the Virgin Mary was able to conceive the baby Jesus! Through this unusual way of human reproduction, the Messianic child was brought forth onto the stage of human history. This cardinal Christian belief - traditionally called "the virgin birth" - has attracted many sharp criticisms throughout the centuries. In this daring and thought-provoking work, Rillera gathers the few, trailblazing theories that explain the science of Mary's Spirit-enabled pregnancy. To set the theories in a broader perspective, Rillera culls illuminating ideas and facts from history, philosophy, genetics, embryology, physics, rabbinic literature and, of course, theology. Classic issues in the age-old rift between faith and reason are simplified for the lay reader. And the presentation format is unique and quite reader-friendly. An exciting feature in the discussion of miracles vs. natural law is Rillera's outline of a new worldview that promises a way out of the traditional conflict between science and religion. Billions celebrate Christmas. From now on, skeptics/critics will be hard pressed to claim that the miraculous conception many people rejoice about is just a myth or historical fiction. But what's the value of a scientific basis for Mary's solo-parental generation of an offspring? Well, there are vital theological and social implications. For example, one scientist explains that the unique sexuality of Jesus, partly arising from virginal conception, underscores the equality of men and women in the church and in the world at large. In his book, Rillera traces this whole line of reasoning. After the main subject matter, there is a bonus section on two relevant issues: Was Eve created after, and inferior to, Adam? What was the earliest gender system? In further pursuit of truth and social justice, this section offers a peek into pertinent debates of fundamentalists, moderates, and liberals; feminists and patriarchy loyalists; r