Bala Cynwyd neurologist Dr. Andrew Newberg is doing pioneering work in the neurological study of religious and spiritual experiences, writes J.F. Pirro for the Main Line Today.

Born in Bala Cynwyd, Newberg grew up in Bryn Mawr. He is a graduate of Haverford College and the University of Pennsylvania. He has so far written ten books on subjects related to the emerging field of neurotheology.

Currently he is serving as the research director for Thomas Jefferson University’s Myrna Brind Center at the Marcus Institute of Integrated Health in Villanova.

For his research, Newberg takes brain scans of people engaging in prayer, mediation, and rituals and attempts to determine how those states influence the individual’s brain.

And while the nation is retreating from formal religion, Newberg hopes he has found himself in a burgeoning area of research. He has already been invited to speak at numerous conferences by both religious and atheist groups. His main goal is to reach people where they are.

“I just hope they can use my work to embrace all sides of themselves and understand their part in the journey,” said Newberg.

Read more about Andrew Newberg at the Main Line Today by clicking here.