This five-session study-action curriculum is
designed to help your congregation appreciate its
place in God's creation more deeply and care for it
more creatively. Class members will study
Scripture, explore their church building and
grounds, and discuss what their local congregation,
landscape and community mean to them in the
light of their Christian faith. Then, in a final
action-planning session, they will bring together
the knowledge and insight they have gained to
imagine and implement new ways that their
congregation can expand its mission in its own
unique corner of creation.
Written by Peter Bakken
Project Team:
Peter Bakken, Coordinator for Public Policy Wisconsin Council of Churches
peterbakken@sbcglobal.net, 608-837-3108
Jeff Wild, Pastor, Advent Lutheran Church
mccwild@chorus.net, 608-824-1761
Bret Shaw, Environmental Communication Specialist, University of Wisconsin Extension
brshaw@wisc.edu, 608-890-1878 |
INTRODUCTION
What is meant by a "sense of place"? Why should a church be concerned about it? This introduction will help answer these questions and give you background and orientation to the themes and ideas developed in this course.
COURSE FACILITATOR'S GUIDE
Tips for using this study-action program in your congregation in a Sunday morning adult forum, evening study group, special retreat, or other context.
SESSION 1: EXPLORING THE GIFT OF PLACE
This session introduces the idea of a "sense of place." Exploring our own experience in the light of the Bible can show us that places are
God's gift to us, our neighbors, and other creatures.
SESSION 2: THE CHURCH AS HABITAT: BUILDING AND GROUNDS
A congregation creates its own place within the larger community and landscape. What values and relationships are embodied in the structure and plot of land where people gather as a faith community?
SESSION 3: CREATION IN THE CHURCH: WORSHIP
A church uses images and materials from its environment to communicate its beliefs. In this session, you will investigate the way your worship space connects the congregation to its place in creation.
SESSION 4: SEEKING THE WELL-BEING OF OUR PLACE
All places are caught up in processes of change that may take them closer or farther from God's intention for justice, health, and harmony. By sharing your hopes and fears for your community and environment, your congregation's witness and service to its context can become deeper and stronger.
SESSION 5: THE CHURCH CARING FOR ITS CORNER OFCREATION: ACTION PLANNING
This session offers a simple process for helping to put what you have learned into action. Identify opportunities, obstacles, resources, and
next steps for helping your congregation respond to God's gift of place.
|
