I have recently become certified as a Green (or Eco) Chaplain. What is a Green Chaplain? Like a conventional Chaplain a Green Chaplain gives spiritual care to those experiencing grief and/or anxiety. The Green Chaplain's focus is on the grief and anxiety resulting from climate change and its consequences. Surveys have shown this is a very real and tangible response to climate change especially with younger people but I believe nearly all people experience eco-grief or anxiety in some form. For example, I think many of us experience Eco anxiety during our fire season made worse over the years by climate change and those who have lost a home or beloved natural setting to a wildfire experience Eco Grief.
Last month I gave a talk about Green Chaplaincy at Pizza and Theology. I explained that the antidote to Eco grief or anxiety is an immersive experience in nature. And I explained how a Green Chaplain can facilitate that process. I also shared that this same approach has been proven to be very effective in mitigating any type of grief or anxiety. I closed the presentation with a 14-day Challenge.
What is a 14-day Challenge?
Everyday for two weeks pause to take-in any natural thing: a tree, a flower, a bird, or even a houseplant. For a few moments to really see the beauty and awe of this God created masterpiece. Then give thanks for its being. I also encouraged people who accepted this Challenge to take a photo to remind yourself of this experience. I guarantee you will find some solace in the midst of this chaotic world. I've shared some photos I've taken and I would love to hear from you!
If you would like to learn more about Green Chaplaincy there will be brochures in the Narthex.
