Faith and Science as Partners in Environmental Awareness and Creation Care

An Ecologist's View

Abstract

The need to engage all people in the care of nature has prompted my work with faith-based groups. I am a scientist who has discovered common ground between the ecological and spiritual values of trees and forests. Drawing upon the authorities of religious texts to articulate these shared values, I have given over forty sermons in places of worship of numerous faiths, created pamphlets about trees in churchyards, and interacted with faculty and students in seminaries. These activities have created portals through which scientists and faith-based groups can further explore and enact ways to promote creation care and sustainable actions.