“We strongly urge congregations across Massachusetts to pray, learn, act, and advocate as we build a bold and faith-filled response to the greatest moral challenge of our time.”
—From the March 2021 joint declaration from the bishops of the Episcopal dioceses of Massachusetts and Western Massachusetts.
THE ORIGINS OF THE PATH
2014 - The Rev. Dr. Margaret Bullitt-Jonas becomes Missioner for Creation Care in the Diocese of Western Massachusetts.
2021 - Margaret becomes the Creation Care Advisor for the Diocese of Massachusetts. The two dioceses in Massachusetts begin partnering in the Creation justice ministry, and the bishops issue a joint Declaration of Climate Emergency. The Creation Care Justice Network (CCJN) leads webinars on the four pillars of Pray, Learn, Act, and Advocate.
2022 - After feedback sessions, congregations ask for clear guidance and a specific sequence of steps to follow. The CCJN adopt the proposal to participate in the Green Congregation Challenge and began building a framework for congregations in New England.
2023 - A pilot program for the Path launches for a dozen congregations in New England.
fall 2024 - The Path is available for congregations throughout The Episcopal Church.
We would like to thank the clergy, laity, scientists, activists, and the diocesan and provincial staff across the country with whom we have discussed and envisioned this project over the last year (2022-2023). Thank you for being consistently encouraging and eager to collaborate as we work to bring it to fruition as broadly as possible across the Church.