CHRISTEN  E.  CIVILETTO

I’m used to the odd looks. Person talking to me: “You’re an environmentalist ... and a Christian?” Me: “Yep.” Cue the [raised eyebrows] [barely concealed smirks] [twisted theological doctrines]. The reactions come from people of all stripes. People outside the faith are understandably perplexed. “Seriously, you Christians care about these things?” And who can blame them? Modern-day followers of Christ haven’t exactly embraced environmental causes as a c

There’s a new concept gaining steam on the international scene. It’s called "environmental peacebuilding” or “environmental peacemaking” (and sometimes “environmental mediation”). It’s based on the principle that our common dependence on the natural world—clean water, fresh air, usable timber, or accessible oil, metals and minerals—can provide a pathway to peace for parties in conflict. Put another way, it’s the idea that cooperation among countries is essential because natur

YOUR Glory, Lord, is evident everywhere in Creation—from the graceful arches of the willow tree, to the deep, abiding peace that comes with the crash of ocean waves. You are the creative force behind the spider’s web, the artist’s eye, the mountain’s craggy silhouette. Thank you for the cicadas that provide the backdrop to summer nights. For the whitewash covering of snow. Thank you for crisp air tinged with the smell of decaying leaves. For spring’s earthy aroma that evokes

It takes a great deal of persistence and fortitude to stand up to wrong things, especially when you’re sure to encounter major obstacles along the way. Obstacles like half-answers or non-answers. Here’s some tips on plowing through those barriers and getting something done: ● Keep the Goal in Mind. It’s easy to get sidetracked when you’re pressing for information, or trying to dig deeper to figure out what’s happening around you. You can get lost on a rabbit trail and emerge