A broader perspective can help

Climate Change. Those two words often overwhelm as much as they might inspire. The problem can feel so large that one’s own efforts appear insignificant. A recent deacon’s conference offers a perspective that can help us move from paralysis to action.

The keynote speaker was the well-known scientist Katherine Hayhoe. One of her themes was that as much as climate change is an existential issue, we needn’t stop working on other ministries we care about. Rather, recognize how climate change affects all of what we do and identify one or two aspects of that issue we might incorporate into other ministries we’re engaged with.

This approach recognizes that climate change is interwoven into everything we do and doesn’t ask us to focus on only one issue. There are more than enough challenges that need our attention!

Deacon Susan Erickson’s own example is her work with food insecurity. Following Prof. Hayhoe’s advice, she now considers how she can promote local, sustainable food production as part of her effort to address food insecurity.

The Episcopal Church has a nationwide program to address this issue. Look at what the Diocese of Arizona is doing by visiting www.sustainislandhome.org and join others who are tracking their carbon use and making a difference – locally and globally.