Oh my. Two topocs i try not to get into here are Evolution and the Civil War. But here goes, on #1:
From what I remember of high-school science, the scientific method starts with observing and investigating known facts and working to find a model that explains those facts. Constant new observation, testing, and adjustment of the model (or hypothesis) are required. And the inquiry should start out with no preconceived notions.
Religious faith ("that which passes all understanding") is a different matter. One cannot "disprove" the existence of God, although some have tried. It explains what science cannot - and there is a lot it can't explain.
Science without a spiritual sense is very dangerous and destructive.
Just my two cents.
topocs = topics