Within their own particular religious communities, people can speak their own language, draw upon the riches of their own traditions, and act through their own networks and institutions. Such “in-house” work can be efficient and effective. It respects the integrity of the community’s faith and the distinctiveness of its gifts.
But there are also times for followers of diverse faiths to speak or act together. When people from across the religious spectrum cry out with one voice against environmental injustice and the abuse of creation, the world takes notice. When hands reach across religious divides to mend and tend a frayed and fragile portion of the earth, they may accomplish together what none could do alone. Without diluting their individuality or compromising their principles, they bear a common witness to the Creator’s will for a flourishing, living earth.
Interfaith environmental engagement has taken many forms:
- Statements on the moral and religious urgency of environmental issues;
- Scholarship that explores the breadth and depth of religion’s relationship to the natural world;
- Education that strengthens religious leadership for the environment;
- Activities that promote human well-being on a healthy planet;
- Advocacy that addresses questions of environmental public policy; and
- Organizations that enable persons from different religious backgrounds to work for common ends.
