Justice

First steps

By Jolyon / 12 June 2007

Presented a sermon on the theological motivation for ecological concern (always feels like you’ve done something when you talk about it).

The Helm group met for the first time and decided that the focus should be wider than becoming carbon neutral. That was thought to be one aspect of the bigger picture of sustainability. Decided to conduct an audit of the church buildings and practice first, then attempt to encourage a small group to look at their lifestyles before attempting to role out the ideas to the wider congregation.

Sideline – discussed how our understanding of environmental sustainability might affect our church and faith practice, not just how our faith affects our environmental understanding. Arguably, consumer mentality and a particular model of economic growth has seen many churches take marketing techniques and a consumer driven service into church practice. For the sake of convenience and pragmatism individual congregations tend to be relatively homogenous, similar types of people having their needs met in churches that fit them. It is easier, and there is large growth – obviously good? In terms of environmental practice however, though easier and practical, a monoculture plantation is seldom a good idea. How would understanding of permeculture and environmental sustainability challenge our faith and church practice. No answer as yet.