A Matter of Faith

Raised in an evangelical tradition, Rachel confronts doubts after a biology class challenge and a campus debate. Her journey moves from certainty toward inquiry, blending faith with a hunger for understanding. The narrative follows her emotional growth as she navigates friends, family, and a changing sense of belonging.

A father who publicly challenges the status quo when his daughter's beliefs shift, embodying the clash between tradition and new ideas. He engages in heated discussions with professors, seeking a path that honors faith while remaining open to dialogue. His arc shows how parental concern can evolve into a more nuanced understanding of truth and belonging.

An initially well-meaning student whose actions reveal a darker complexity: he seeks to win Rachel over while hiding a troubling past. He reveals that he once stole a coin from a girl at a nature preserve—the same person Rachel is. His journey toward faith and forgiveness adds tension and moral ambiguity to the story.

A biology instructor who challenges creationist claims and questions the afterlife, prompting debate on campus. He embodies skepticism and intellectual rigor, pushing characters to defend or reevaluate their positions. His influence helps set the stage for a possible reconciliation in the classroom.

A fired professor who returns with a controversial stance, advocating for a balanced curriculum that includes both evolution and creationism. He bridges the gap between conflicting viewpoints and underscores the possibility of learning from multiple perspectives. His candor shifts the debate toward conciliatory education.

Rachel's romantic interest who intends to invite her to a party to get her intoxicated, highlighting the dangers and consequences of coercive behavior. His plans are confronted by Evan, and their dynamic becomes a catalyst for turning points in Rachel's choices. His arc touches on temptation, accountability, and growth.