MARQUETTE -- The theological issues surrounding the controversial Kennecott nickel and copper mine in Marquette County will be among the environmental topics discussed by a Biblical scholar in Marquette Monday night.

Although Dr. Audrey West works at the Lutheran School of Theology in Chicago, she says she is familiar with the Kennecott Corporation Eagle Mills Mine off County Road 550.

West says she will explore the spiritual issues, and how to take the Bible seriously, instead of literally, when it comes to environmental topics, such as this one.

"That the Bible can teach not only what to think, but also how to go about thinking, so for people who want to take the Bible seriously, it can offer some resources for how we might go about deliberating about tough issues, like the issue of the mine," said Dr. West.

Environmental groups as well as Native American tribes who have a spiritual connection to Eagle Rock on the site of the proposed mine are all trying to keep the mine from opening.

Dr. West will speak at 7 p.m. Monday night in the N.M.U. University Center Brule Room.

The program is free and open to the public.