Eco-Justice Workshops
The biblical concept of Shalom contains an ecological imperative. Peace on Earth means peace with Earth. Eco-justice bridges the historical division between ecological concerns and social concerns, exploring how Christians are called to heal the entire Earth community, human and non-human alike, so that there is "enough for all Creation."
Saturday, March 14, 2009
10:45 - 12:15am: Track Time I
Politics, Policy, and Faith.
Tyler Edgar, Assistant Director of Climate Change and Energy at the National Council of Churches Eco-Justice Programs, will provide details about specific legislation and ways to be an effective advocate. Participants will delve into current scientific findings and explore environmental justice aspects of climate change domestically and abroad. The workshop consider climate change as a Christian concern, and why there is reason for hope.
Speakers: Tyler Edgar, Jim Barrett, Rev. Michael McClain
A Low-Carbon Light unto the Nations: Practical steps to greening your lives and your congregations.
Learn about the impacts that our everyday activities have on God's Creation. Together we will discover ways we can reduce our individual carbon footprints and become empowered to transform our own lives to reflect our Christian values of stewardship and justice. Find out how to increase the energy efficiency of your church and equip yourself to share what you've learned with your congregation.
Speakers: Lizzie McGurk
4:30 - 6:00pm: Track Time II
Luther in Latin America.
Join with Lutheran lay leaders as they recount their recent mission experiences in Nicaragua. From Hurricane Mitch to the effects of globalization and the migration of malaria-carrying mosquitoes, this biologically diverse country has much to teach us about human/earth interdependence. Participants will examine climate change impacts from a Latin American perspective as the leaders share their experience, observations, and learning from this geographical and spiritual pilgrimage.
Speakers: TBD
Climate Justice
Climate change is having tremendous impacts on communities around the world. As Christians, we are concerned about those living in poverty in the global south. We often fail to see the vulnerable communities and families that are close to us. In this workshop, we will explore the impacts of climate change and climate legislation on those living in poverty, communities of color, the elderly and our children in the U.S.A. Rev. Michael McClain is a dynamic Baptist minister, and serves the National Council of Churches Eco-Justice Programs as Regional Field Coordinator
Speakers: Rev. Michael McClain
Sunday, March 15th
2:00 - 3:30pm: Track Time III
Mindful Living: Healthy People, Healthy Churches, Healthy Creation
From chemicals in baby bottles to lead in lipstick, we encounter a number of products with toxic chemicals in our everyday lives. These are just a few "burning bushes" that remind us of our calling to care for the health of our bodies and Creation. This interactive workshop will include theological study, education on chemicals of concern, and ideas for action through our Christian witness to make changes in our homes, our congregations, and on Capitol Hill ensuring that vulnerable populations, such as women and children, are protected.
Facilitated by Chloe Schwabe
3:45-5:15 Track Time IV
Theology of Ecology
Jordan Blevins, Assistant Director of the Eco-Justice Program Office, Fritz Gutwein, Haiti Reborn: a program of the Quixote Center, and Drew Sutton, Wesley Seminary, will lead an exploration of religious practices and theological concepts relating to eco-justice.
Speakers: Jordan Blevins, Fritz Gutwein, Drew Sutton