Professor Tony Magana, a seasoned neurosurgeon, has not only dedicated his life to medical practice but also embarked on a profound spiritual journey. He grew up on the South Texas border in McAllen, Texas, attended Texas A&M University, Harvard Medical School, and trained in Neurosurgery at the University of Miami. He took classes in spirituality, Old and New Testament, and Liturgy at the Episcopal Southeast Florida Diocesan school. He is a graduate of the four year Education for Ministry program from the University of South.
He has in the past traveled to South Korea, Columbia, Mexico, Turkey, Paris, Frankfort, Amsterdam, Stockholm, and other places to teach new techniques for spinal surgery which he helped develop. He served honorably in the United States Army Reserve Medical Corp with the rank of Captain. He was a consultant to the United Arab Emirates Military Hospital during the ISIS war caring for many civilians transferred there for care. Then for a decade he was an academic neurosurgeon in Ethiopia with the last six years at Mekelle University in Tigray teaching medical students, surgery and neurosurgery residents, starting a neurosurgery program, and heading a multidisciplinary research team on neural tube defects otherwise known as spina bifida. He left Tigray late in 2020 due the civil conflict between Tigray and the Ethiopian federal government but maintains an active advisory status. He has written about his medical experiences in his neurosurgery blog . His research publications done jointly with the Mekelle University neural tube research team and some also with Emory University can be found by searching Google Scholar.
Over the past 15 years, he has deepened his Christian faith through study and worship within the Episcopal Church. He is a member of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. His exploration and critical thinking has led him to reflect on the intersection of medicine and spirituality.
Today, Professor Magana continues to explore faith and explore theology of the Old and New Testament as well as Jewish and Christian history. His unique perspective bridges the gap between science and faith, emphasizing the value of critical thinking in understanding God’s message.
Professor Tony Magana’s writing in MyFindingGrace.com encompasses several key themes related to faith, critical thinking, and spirituality. Let’s explore some of these themes:
Critical Thinking and Faith Integration:
Professor Magana emphasizes the importance of critical thinking in both medicine and faith. He draws parallels between the process of evaluating evidence in medical diagnosis and the thoughtful exploration of spiritual questions. The ability to critically analyze information, consider biases, and arrive at informed conclusions is essential for understanding both scientific and religious aspects of life.
The Intersection of Science and Spirituality:
As a neurosurgeon, Professor Magana navigates the intersection of science and faith. He recognizes that these seemingly distinct realms can coexist harmoniously. His writings explore how scientific knowledge and spiritual insights complement each other, enriching our understanding of existence.
Grace and Suffering:
Inspired by biblical narratives, Professor Magana reflects on the concept of grace amidst suffering. The Book of Job serves as a powerful example. Job’s journey from adversity to acceptance highlights the role of grace in times of hardship. Professor Magana encourages readers to find grace even in life’s challenges.
Community and Worship:
Professor Magana actively participates in the Episcopal Church community. His writings often touch on the significance of communal worship, fellowship, and shared spiritual experiences. Community provides support, encouragement, and a sense of belonging, reinforcing faith and deepening one’s relationship with God.
Ethical Dilemmas and Spiritual Guidance:
As a medical professional, Professor Magana grapples with ethical dilemmas. His work explores how faith informs decision-making in complex medical situations. He encourages dialogue about ethical choices, seeking spiritual guidance alongside medical expertise.
