Send us a voice note
In this Earthkeepers Essentials archive episode, Wes Willison shares his journey from political awareness to ecological engagement, exploring how faith, community, and practical actions like gun decommissioning serve as acts of hope and transformation. In particular, he and Forrest explore ways in which we can resist despair and practice grace for ourselves in a world fraught with really difficult and sometimes overwhelming problems. In that framework, they discuss the importance of sacramental practices in environmental and social justice work, and how surprise and resilience shape our response to a challenging future.
Information:
Key Topics
o Wes Willison's background and journey into earth care
o The role of seminary and the Farminary project in ecological understanding
o The significance of sacramental practices in environmental work
o The process of decommissioning guns as a symbol of hope and transformation
o The impact of political shifts and generational perspectives on climate anxiety
o Coping mechanisms for depression and anxiety related to climate change
o The potential for surprise and new hope in political and ecological contexts
o The importance of community, faith, and practical action in shaping a sustainable future
Keywords
ecology, faith, social justice, gun decommissioning, community, hope, sacrament, environmental activism, mental health, generational change, depression, self-care, Princeton Farminary, compost theology, Norm Wirzba
Some Takeaways
- Sacramental practices can serve as powerful acts of hope and transformation in social and ecological justice.
- Engaging with the earth through work like composting and farming reveals God's presence in creation.
- Decommissioning guns and repurposing their parts into art and tools symbolizes hope and healing.
- Surprise is a key indicator of the Spirit's activity and a source of hope in dark times.
- Coping with climate anxiety involves intentional practices of rest, community, and engagement.
Find us on our website: Earthkeepers
Support the Earthkeepers podcast
Check out the Ecological Disciple
