Environment

Tiya Miles: Harriet Tubman’s belief in God was central to her work for freedom

Along with her ties to the natural world, Tubman’s faith was formational in the heroic acts for which she is — and was, in her own time — known, says the author and academic.

Forget optimism — choose hope

Hopeful people don’t blindly assume that everything is going to be all right; they work for a better future, writes the director of research at Duke’s Office of Climate and Sustainability.

By Norman Wirzba Gilbert T. Rowe Distinguished Professor, Duke Divinity School

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Becca Edwards: Science is a tool that helps us better live out our faith

In her work as a climate action fellow, a former science professor equips clergy and laypeople to advocate for environmental justice.

Faith partners fight against ‘heat islands’: How a coalition works to lower temperatures and decrease flooding in cities

A church and a faith-based institute join a coalition that helps people create cooler, safer neighborhoods where residents can thrive.

By Leslie Quander Wooldridge Journalist

Image link to article: Faith partners fight against ‘heat islands’: How a coalition works to lower temperatures and decrease flooding in cities

‘Looking Up: A Birder’s Guide to Hope Through Grief’

Peace comes to us in different clothing than we may expect, writes author Courtney Ellis in this excerpt from her meditation on birding as a practice of hope.

By Courtney Ellis Associate pastor, Presbyterian Church of the Master

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My students taught me that sustainable end-of-life plans can empower young and old alike

A professor’s personal experience and research inspired a course on sustainable end-of-life choices. What happened that semester surprised everyone in the classroom.

By Mallory McDuff Professor

Image link to article: My students taught me that sustainable end-of-life plans can empower young and old alike

Going to church under an oak tree

A visitor finds peace and belonging at New Life Lutheran Church, which worships outdoors in the Texas Hill Country.

By Mónica Tornoé Director of Latino/a Programs for Lifelong Learning, Austin Seminary

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Katharine Hayhoe: How to talk about climate change with people who disagree with you

Whether it’s with your uncle or your congregation, having conversations about climate change is the first step to action, says one of the nation’s top climate scientists.

Katharine Hayhoe: How to talk about climate change with people who disagree with you (long version)

Whether it’s with your uncle or your congregation, having conversations about climate change is the first step to action, says one of the nation’s top climate scientists.

Brittany Koteles: Land justice takes imagination

A co-founder of Land Justice Futures works with Catholic religious communities to plan how to use their land justly.

At DaySpring Baptist Church, less is more

In Waco, Texas, a contemplative Baptist church prioritizes sacred and simple as central to its self-definition. The result is an intentional focus that guides everything from space upkeep to community involvement to fundraising campaigns.

By Anna Mitchael Writer

Image link to article: At DaySpring Baptist Church, less is more