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In spite of their differences, the
varieties of Jewish and Christian communities
hold a common ground in the belief that good earth
is God’s beloved and gifted creation. They
know a common sense of responsibility for cherishing
our planet’s blessings, respecting its limits,
and safeguarding our neighbors and our fellow
creatures.
Within their own particular religious communities,
people can speak their own language, draw upon
the riches of their own traditions, and act through
their own networks and institutions. Such “in-house”
work can be efficient and effective. It respects
the integrity of the community’s faith and
the distinctiveness of its gifts.
But there are also times for followers of diverse
faiths to speak or act together. When people from
across the religious spectrum cry out with one
voice against environmental injustice and the
abuse of creation, the world takes notice. When
hands reach across religious divides to mend and
tend a frayed and fragile portion of the earth,
they may accomplish together what none could do
alone. Without diluting their individuality or
compromising their principles, they bear a common
witness to the Creator’s will for a flourishing,
living earth.
Interfaith environmental engagement has taken
many forms:
- Statements
on the moral and religious urgency of environmental
issues;
- Scholarship
that explores the breadth and depth of religion’s
relationship to the natural world;
- Education
that strengthens religious leadership for the
environment;
- Activities
that promote human well-being on a healthy planet;
- Advocacy
that addresses questions of environmental public
policy; and
- Organizations
that enable persons from different religious
backgrounds to work for common ends.
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