Global Ministries, the UMC’s missions agency will bring its EarthKeepers training in “creation care” to Philadelphia, at Arch Street UMC, Aug 8-11.
The training–the first of three scheduled around the U.S. from August to October–will equip United Methodists to develop environmental stewardship initiatives in their churches and communities and connect them with others in the church who are actively engaged in such work.
Training topics include eco-theology, project planning and community organizing, anti-racism, strategies for social change, and accessing UMC resources. Participants will make plans to implement projects in their churches and/or communities and then have opportunities to apply for grants to support those projects.
“Essentially, we work with participants to translate their passions into action, ” says the Rev. Jenny Phillips, Creation Care Program Manager for UMCOR (UM Committee on Relief).
Global Ministries will pay all costs for the training, including lodging for those who need it. The agency’s EarthKeepers will come from conferences around the U.S., ranging in age from 13-99, although teens must attend with a participating parent or guardian. The application deadline is July 1. Find more information at www.umcmission.org/EarthKeepers.