Tackling our climate crisis is a daunting task. Figuring out the root cause of our environmental problems as well as what can be done to protect our planet can feel overwhelming and, at times, discouraging. But knowing people who care and who are doing the work of safeguarding our beautiful Earth home can motivate us to stay the course.
For my new book, Faith, Hope, Action: Ushering in a New Earth Era, Together, I spent two years meeting with scientists, farmers, Indigenous teachers, environmental justice advocates, student activists, and faith-based visionaries who are making a positive difference in their communities. Inspired by a love of nature, I also spent quiet, reflective time listening to Mother Earth.
What I learned during this journey, is that there is no one magic solution for solving our environmental challenges. But the good news is that there are lots of things we can do to nourish our Earth home. I also discovered that we accomplish so much more when we join forces with others who are engaged in this urgent, life-saving work.
One of the individuals I spoke with for this book is Amanda Shepherd, Deputy Regional Field Director for Sierra Club’s Central Region. What I admire about Amanda is that she “walks the talk” in her commitment to our planet, in both her professional position at the Sierra Club and in her personal life.
When I asked Amanda what we can do to help address climate change, she explained that advocacy is critical. “We need to contact our local and state representatives and become informed and educated on issues such as the climate.” She also pointed out that we need the power grid to move toward renewable, climate-friendly energy, such as solar. A strong advocate for creating healthy communities, Amanda gives me reason for hope!
I also spoke with three high school students, Claire, Ben, and Madison, who attend Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School. They remind everyone that future generations depend on what we do today. As Claire emphasized, “Getting involved in climate action is needed now more than ever. … You can find amazing groups, whether it’s a group like Youth Climate Coalition or the Sierra Club. … Each voice matters and needs to be heard.” Ben’s advice: “Just get involved! Throw yourself into it. Deepen your values. Really focus on educating yourself.” Madison concurs. “You are never just one person. It’s a matter of everyone and what our collective actions can do.”
Please join us for the Book Launch Celebration on Friday, March 22, hosted by the Sierra Club Hoosier Chapter and Center for Interfaith Cooperation.
We will have a book reading and signings, music, information tables, and conversation (and snacks!).
Indiana Interchurch Center. Krannert Hall (2nd floor).
1100 W. 42nd St, Indianapolis, IN 46208
5:30 PM – 7:30 PM. Free.
The book, Faith, Hope, Action, also contains a chapter on forming Earth Sustainability Circles for further group discussion. To learn more, please visit: https://dianaensign.com/faith-hope-action/
Diana J. Ensign
Award-Winning Author