Episcopal Life Online Daybook -- Today is Monday, October 8, 2007.
* Today in Scripture: http://www.episcopalchurch.org/82457_ENG_HTM.htm * Today in Prayer: Anglican Cycle of Prayer: http://www.anglicancommunion.org/acp/index.cfm) * Today in History: On this day in 1882, Walter Russell Bowie, priest and theologian, was born in Richmond, Virginia. __________________
MISSION
Environmental and faith groups collaborate for inspiration and action
By Phina Borgeson
[Episcopal News Service] Eleanor McKenzie DelBene, chair of the Episcopal Diocese of Alabama Task Force for the Stewardship of Creation, explaining the purpose of their Watersheds and Warming initiative, emphasizes: "We are focused on weaving broader networks for action. What this might look like will emerge out of those who are gathered."
Participants in the one-day invitational conference October 11 will range from representatives of Alabama Power and the greater Birmingham public transportation system to nature photographers and grassroots conservationists, from university scientists and science educators to real estate developers.
Half a continent away, environmentalists and church members in Wyoming are already meeting to follow-up on last month's "On Sacred Ground" (http://www.wcvedfund.org/docs/sacredprogram.pdf) conference.
"More than 70 people formed local affinity groups dedicated to carrying out concrete plans for future projects in several of Wyoming's communities," reports Jason Marsden, director of Wyoming Conservation Voters Education Fund. Some have already met, led by volunteers who want to put what they learned into practice immediately.
Full story: http://www.episcopalchurch.org/81799_90801_ENG_HTM.htm
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Catalyst: "Soul Banquets: How Meals Become Mission in the Local Congregation" from Church Publishing, Inc., by John Koenig, 144 pages, paperback, c. 2007, $15.95
[Source: Church Publishing, Inc.] This book provides a look at the way meals of various sorts can be more effectively integrated into parish activities, promoting the emergence of new gifts for ministry as well as increasing our gratitude for God's abundance and the works of justice and mercy that follow from our expressions of thanksgiving.
"As mainline denominations continue to seek a mission focus that speaks to a culturally and theologically diverse people, Koenig shows us a way forward that lies at the heart of the Christian tradition -- the sharing of meals. A must read for all churches seeking to bring members, both old and new, closer to the Holy Spirit in their midst." -- The Rev. Canon Elizabeth Geitz, author of Fireweed Evangelism: Christian Hospitality in a Multifaith World and Calling Clergy: A Spiritual and Practical Guide through the Search Process.
Please note: the author will hold a book signing in Catalyst Café & Books (815 Second Avenue, New York, NY, 10017) on Friday, October 12 from 4:30-6 p.m. All are welcome to attend.
To order: Episcopal Books and Resources, online at http://www.episcopalbookstore.org or call 800-903-5544 -- or visit your local Episcopal bookseller, http://www.episcopalbooksellers.org