Saturday, August 4, 2012: 12:00 PM-5:00 PM
	M.L. King Jr. Lobby, Oregon Convention Center
	
	
	
		
			Organizer:
			
				
					
					
						Leanne Jablonski
					
				
			
 
		 
	
		
			Co-organizers:
			
				
					
					
						Jenny Holmes
					
				
					 and 
					
						Gregory E. Hitzhusen
					
				
			
 
		 
	
	
	
	
	
		Scientists and faith communities are increasingly collaborating to ensure the care and preservation of ecosystems, thus empowering a more sustainable culture of ecological care, as ecologists increase our understanding of natural systems, and faith communities deepen commitments to addressing ecological concerns.  Dialogue, conversation, and mutual exchange remain important tasks to establish fruitful partnerships between ecologists and faith communities.  Perhaps no region in America better exemplifies the creative possibilities for new synergy among communities than the Portland area, and this workshop brings together faith and ecology leaders to share some of the most innovative project successes in North America.
This workshop/fieldtrip features the environmental work and insights of  Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon (emo), highlighting ecosystem projects transferable elsewhere.  Panelists of faith leaders and ecologists engaged with religious organizations will share best practises, resources and opportunities.   Participants will discover principles that can help people’s faith be more effective in addressing ecological concerns, how to deepen rapport between religious members and  ecological scientists for mutual enrichment and how ecologists can assist congregation environmental care.
Hosted by EMO in partnership with ESA Environmental Justice section members, this workshop builds on ESA 2011 meeting dialogue with religious organizations.  We’ll experience the beautiful Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area at the urban growth boundary 30 mins from citycenter (www.menucha.org), and enjoy a sumptuous locally grown meal with a blessing by Portland Tuv Ha’Aretz, a group that connects Jewish teachings and traditions with sustainable food and agricultural practices.  http://portlandtuv.org/index.php/about/