The Journey of Respondng to the Challenges of Climate Change from Within ContinuesIn 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 more 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

Please note: this will be a ZOOM  course only due to conflicts in our physical space.

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.

Paul Doherty is an armchair theologian with experience in music, broadcasting, and ministry. He has also been teaching for several years at two Maine senior colleges, including South Coast.

10-11:30   September 27, October 4, October 11.

When you think about climate change and ecosystems destruction, do you experience feelings of despair or 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, social scientists, and philosophers who have shown us 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?

Pre-Class Assignments and Suggested Reading:

Videos and short articles will be assigned before each class.

One book is suggested (but not required): Moore, Kathleen Dean (2016). Great tide rising.

Thomas G. White is a developmental psychologist whose career focused on teaching and research in K-12 and higher education settings. Since retiring from the University of Virginia in 2017, he has been teaching lifelong learners at Midcoast Senior College and the Osher Institutes at the University of Southern Maine and the College of William and Mary.