You Won't Hear Much from Me

My regular column for The Ecological Disciple is called "The Way Forward." It explores what it means to follow Jesus in a time when ecological discoveries are radically changing our understanding of creation and ecological destruction is rapidly degrading our planet.

Reflecting on the pieces I've written over the last several years, as well as the education initiatives we have developed through Circlewood, I believe that the time has come to articulate a vision for "The Way Forward" in a comprehensive way. To that end, I have begun writing a book with the working title, "Following Jesus from the Ground Up: The Journey of Ecological Discipleship."

This project means that I will not be writing regularly for The Ecological Disciple. While I will miss connecting regularly with readers, I will continue in my editorial role and hope to share occasional updates with you. My absence opens up an exciting opportunity for The Ecological Disciple to publish a broader and more diverse group of writers. We have been actively recruiting these voices, and are eager to share their writing with you through the coming year.

If you are interested in learning more about the book project, read on.

A Book Whose Time Has Come

A growing number of Christians and churches want to practice a more creation-oriented faith but do not know how to go about it. This book will help readers understand the theological foundations of an ecologically-conscious faith, see the cultural and ecclesial obstacles that make this kind of faith challenging, and take practical steps to put their faith into action.

The book will guide readers through the pathway we have been developing at Circlewood: The Journey of Ecological Discipleship. I believe this will add a vital contribution to the growing number of resources and organizations aimed at “greening” Christian faith. There is rich and diverse scholarship in the field of eco-theology. There are authors who offer incisive cultural and religious criticism. There are organizations focused on creation care, environmental justice, and creation spirituality. There are many creative examples of "green faith" in action.

What is missing is a clear pathway that helps Christians, churches, and faith-based institutions incorporate and integrate these aspects of faith into the lifelong work of following Jesus - what we have historically understood as the transformative work of discipleship. This book offers a way for Christians to hear and respond to Christ's call - "Follow me!" - as it echoes throughout the beautiful and perilous ecological age we live in.

This book will be for those who have heard this call and want to respond with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. It will be for those who encounter God's presence in the world about them and perceive the divine pulsing through the whole community of creation. It will be for those who see the connections between people and planet and are ready to partner with God more fully in the work of healing, justice, and restoration. It will be for those who grieve for what is happening but continue to trust that the gospel is good news for all creation. It will be for people who want to go deeper on their journey, and for those who are ready to take their first step.

I have been on this path for many years now, and my work with Circlewood has helped clarify what the journey entails. The book will explore six distinct but interconnected pathways that can help guide followers of Jesus into a more ecologically-conscious faith.

If this is a journey that resonates with you, let me know and I'll make sure you get periodic updates as the project moves forward. In the meantime, I would appreciate your prayers as I seek to create something that will be encouraging, challenging, timely, and helpful. I also hope you enjoy the fresh perspectives of those who will be adding their voices to The Ecological Disciple this year.

With you on the Way,

James

Comment below or email me at james.amadon (at) circlewood.online.