The journey of responding to the challenges of climate change from within continues in this follow-up to last spring's  Seeing the earth, Sensing the sacred.  We will continue to explore how we might respond to climate change as we look at additional spiritual guides and traditions, including the important voices of women in both the past and the present.  We will also learn about efforts currently underway to join spiritual principles with scientific knowledge as a path to greater ecological healing.

"Every creature is a glittering, glistening mirror of Divinity." ~ Hildegard von Bingen

"The more clearly we can focus our attention on the wonders and realities of the universe, the less taste we shall have for destruction." ~ Rachel Carson

"I thought the secret of life was obvious:  be here now, love as if your whole life depended on it, and try to get hold of a giant panda." ~ Anne Lamott

You do not need to have participated in the initial course last spring.  We will begin with a quick summary of what we covered as a review for those who were there and an introduction for newcomers.  This is a shared class with South Coast Senior College.

This will be a shared class with South Coast Senior College.

When you think about climate change and ecosystems destruction, do you experience feelings of despair and helplessness?  Do you want to leave these negative thoughts and feelings behind and take a thought-provoking journey to 'active hope'?  In this discussion-oriented class, you will explore the ideas of scientists and philosophers who have shown how we could create a more hopeful story for ourselves.  You will consider this question:  How can I become more active -- and hopeful -- in protecting the Earth and ensuring the well-being of future generations?

Videos and short articles will be assigned before each class.  Suggested reading but not required is Great Tide Rising by Kathleen Dean Moore.