Ecofaith ‘movers and shakers’ : encountering religious ecological hope in action in northeastern Minnesota

Abstract: Together, motivated by various belief systems, people are moved to take action regarding environmental issues. In this thesis, the compelling intersection where faith and environmental values meet is examined. Central in this research are members of the leadership team of the EcoFaith Network of the Northeastern Minnesota Synod, whose mission is to heed God’s call to be environmental stewards. Utilizing a qualitative analysis involving standardized, open-ended interviews, it was found that folks are motivated by their faith, by the energy of young people, and hope in particular, which endures due to the collective nature of the Network. This hope sustains them through obstacles that may arise, as they are able to lean on one another, and as they envisage a better future, one in which people of faith share a spot with other advocates in action concerning the ecological crisis.