Christianity & Ecology from Coursera

There is a need for broader literacy and deeper knowledge of the world’s religions and their ecological contributions. This course is designed as a gateway to the rich ecological dimensions of the Christian religious tradition. We delve into unique contributions from Catholic, Orthodox, and Protestant Christianity, exploring views on and relationship with the natural world. We additionally highlight the relationship between Christianity and environmental justice, evangelical approaches to “creation care”, and Christian teachings on biodiversity, climate change, and the relationship between human, Earth, and cosmos.

This course is for lifelong learners curious to know more about world religions and ecology, environmental professionals eager to deepen the discourse of environmental protection and conservation, those working with non-profit organizations and NGOs on issues of ecological justice, and religious leaders and laity who wish to know how they can contribute to interreligious dialogue on environmental projects.

What's inside

Syllabus

MODULE 1: Course Introduction

MODULE 2: Introduction to Religion and Ecology

We begin by situating Christianity within the study of Religion and Ecology. We explore topics such as creation, incarnation, and sacraments as an entry into Christianity and Ecology. We introduce the emergence of eco-theology as a shift in theological thinking that relates the teachings of Christianity to our contemporary ecological and climate related challenges.

MODULE 3: Overview of Christianity and Ecological Responses

We reflect on historical questions embedded in the study of Christianity and Ecology. How do our contemporary environmental challenges and questions relate to the earlier formation and development of Christianity? Foremost among these questions are ideas of stewardship and care for the Earth along with doctrinal issues regarding incarnation, especially as this theme relates to the historical figure of Christ, and the Cosmic Christ prominent in John’s Gospel and several of Paul’s Epistles.

MODULE 4: Sacramental Christianity: Earth as Sacred Icon

We focus on Orthodox Christianity and ecology under the leadership of the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, first among the religious leaders of the Greek Orthodox Church. We follow the symposium he organized on the Adriatic Sea, which like all of his eight symposia focused on water issues. This conference brought together scientists, civil servants, journalists, and religious spokespersons to consider ecology, politics, and spirituality as a basis for more integrated environmental solutions.

MODULE 5: Christian Integral Ecology: “Cry of the Earth; Cry of the Poor”

We focus on Catholic theology and ecojustice under the leadership of Pope Francis, especially with attention to his encyclical letter, Laudato Si’: On Care for our Common Home (2015). The influence of this encyclical is widespread, including responses from other religions and transformative action led by the Laudato Si’ Movement. Through the lens of “integral ecology,” this document expands understandings of social justice to incorporate ecosystems and all forms of life.

MODULE 6: Embodied Christianity: Ecotheology in Practice

We focus on the impact of the Protestant Reformation movements in Christianity, especially with regard to their positions on the natural world as God’s creation. In the 16th Century, the Reformation opened new theological directions and institutional formations that have shaped human-Earth relations into the present. Christianity began to be guided by a broader community-church leadership as reformers engaged scripture and the natural world.

MODULE 7: “Integral Liberation”: Christian Ecojustice Engagement

We explore topics of significance for contemporary Christianity, namely environmental justice and the roles of women in Christianity and ecology. Building on Christian concepts of social justice, ecojustice has emerged in response to disproportionate environmental harms faced by marginalized communities. This integration of environmental and social issues affirms the writings, practices, and experiences of women in Christianity worldwide.

MODULE 8: Food, Animals, Biodiversity, and Climate Change

We explore emerging Christian perspectives regarding food, agriculture, animals, and biodiversity. We place this in the context of a “communion of subjects” affirming the profound interconnection of all life. We highlight emerging theological ethics and engaged religious action in response to the climate emergency.

MODULE 9: Christianity and Cosmology

How might Christianity flourish in relation to scientific insights about evolution? In this module, the first section focuses on the influence of Thomas Berry and a New Story. This evolutionary story is a context for human flourishing, an orientation for Christianity, and an inspiration for other religious traditions in a planetary era. The second section focuses on forms of worship that emphasize the sacred relationship between Human, Earth, and Cosmos.

MODULE 10: Course Conclusion

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Explores various perspectives on Christianity and ecology, providing a broad understanding of the topic

Taught by reputable instructors, Mary Evelyn Tucker and John Grim, who are well-known in the field of religion and ecology

Provides insights into the ecological contributions of Christianity, making it relevant for those interested in interfaith dialogue

Suitable for lifelong learners curious about the intersection of religion and ecology, environmental professionals, and religious leaders

Examines the relationship between Christianity and environmental justice, highlighting the social and ethical dimensions of ecology

Covers a wide range of topics, from eco-theology to Christian integral ecology, providing a comprehensive overview of the subject

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Christianity & Ecology with these activities:

Review Basic Concepts of Ecology

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Reinforce understanding of ecological concepts, providing a foundation for exploring the intersection of religion and ecology.

Browse courses on Ecology

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Review key terms and principles of ecology, such as ecosystems, biodiversity, and food webs
Consider the role of human activities in shaping ecological systems

Identify and Connect with Experts in the Field of Religion and Ecology

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Establish connections with experienced professionals, accessing valuable insights and guidance on the intersection of religion and ecology.

Browse courses on Religion

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Attend conferences, workshops, or online events related to religion and ecology
Reach out to professors, researchers, or practitioners in the field
Engage in conversations, ask questions, and seek advice

Read Laudato Si': On Care for Our Common Home by Pope Francis

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Gain insights into Pope Francis' teachings on ecology and environmental protection, enhancing understanding of Catholic perspectives on the topic.

View Laudate Deum on Amazon

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Read the encyclical in its entirety, paying attention to key concepts and arguments
Identify the main themes and ethical principles presented
Consider the implications for personal and collective action in addressing environmental challenges

Three other activities

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Engage in Online Discussions with Peers on Christian Perspectives on Environmentalism

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Foster critical thinking and communication skills by exchanging ideas and perspectives on the role of Christianity in environmentalism.

Browse courses on Christianity

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Identify online forums or social media groups dedicated to discussions on Christianity and environmentalism
Participate actively in discussions, sharing thoughts, asking questions, and responding to others
Engage respectfully with diverse perspectives, seeking to understand and learn from others

Research on Orthodox Christian Views on the Environment

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Develop a research-based understanding of Orthodox Christian perspectives, contributing to a more nuanced comprehension of Christian ecology.

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Identify academic databases and online resources relevant to the topic
Conduct a thorough literature review, focusing on key thinkers and influential texts
Analyze and synthesize the findings, highlighting major themes and perspectives
Consider the implications for environmental ethics and sustainable practices

Develop an Essay on the Relationship Between Climate Change and Christian Ethics

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Synthesize knowledge of Christian teachings and environmental science, fostering critical thinking and articulation skills in exploring ethical implications of climate change.

Browse courses on Christianity

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Research the scientific consensus on climate change and its impacts
Examine Christian ethical principles related to stewardship, justice, and the common good
Develop a thesis statement that articulates the relationship between these two perspectives
Craft a well-structured essay, presenting evidence and analysis to support the thesis

Career center

Learners who complete Christianity & Ecology will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Theology Professor

This course is designed for Theology Professors who wish to incorporate ecological themes into their teaching and research. The course will cover the history of Christian theology and ecology, as well as contemporary approaches to ecotheology.

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Religious Leader

This course is designed for religious leaders who wish to know how they can contribute to interreligious dialogue on environmental projects. The course will cover topics such as Christian Integral Ecology, Cry of the Earth, Cry of the Poor, and Embodied Christianity: Ecotheology in Practice.

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Religious Studies Professor

This course will be useful for Religious Studies Professors who are seeking to integrate ecological themes into their teaching and research. The course will cover topics such as Christian Integral Ecology, Cry of the Earth, Cry of the Poor, and Embodied Christianity: Ecotheology in Practice.

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Environmental Activist

This course will be useful to Environmental Activists who are seeking to develop a more effective approach to their work. The course will cover topics such as Christian Integral Ecology, Cry of the Earth, Cry of the Poor, and Embodied Christianity: Ecotheology in Practice.

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Environmental Educator

Integral Liberation, a topic covered in Module 7, integrates environmental and social issues and affirms the writings, practices, and experiences of women in Christianity worldwide. This course will be useful to Environmental Educators who are seeking to develop a more inclusive and intersectional approach to environmental education.

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Nonprofit Program Director

This course may be useful to Nonprofit Program Directors who are working with NGOs on issues of ecological justice. The course will cover topics such as Christian Integral Ecology, Cry of the Earth, Cry of the Poor, and Embodied Christianity: Ecotheology in Practice.

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Environmental Consultant

This course will be useful to Environmental Consultants who are seeking to develop a more comprehensive approach to environmental consulting. The course will cover topics such as Christian Integral Ecology, Cry of the Earth, Cry of the Poor, and Embodied Christianity: Ecotheology in Practice.

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Environmental Policy Analyst

Christian Integral Ecology, a topic covered in the course, expands understandings of social justice to incorporate ecosystems and all forms of life. This course will be useful to Environmental Policy Analysts who are seeking to develop a more comprehensive approach to environmental policy.

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Environmental Writer

This course may be useful to Environmental Writers who are seeking to incorporate a Christian theological perspective into their work. The course will cover topics such as Christian Integral Ecology, Cry of the Earth, Cry of the Poor, and Embodied Christianity: Ecotheology in Practice.

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Environmental Lawyer

This course may be useful for Environmental Lawyers who are seeking to develop a deeper understanding of the relationship between Christianity and ecology. The course will cover topics such as Christian Integral Ecology, Cry of the Earth, Cry of the Poor, and Embodied Christianity: Ecotheology in Practice.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Lawyer

Sustainability Manager

The course will introduce you to the concept of ecotheology and its implications for environmental protection and conservation. This course will be useful to Sustainability Managers who are seeking to deepen their understanding of the relationship between Christianity and ecology.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Manager

Ecology Researcher

This course may be useful for Ecology Researchers who are seeking to incorporate a Christian theological perspective into their work. The course will cover topics such as Christian Integral Ecology, Cry of the Earth, Cry of the Poor, and Climate Change.

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Conservation Biologist

This course may be useful for those seeking to become Conservation Biologists who are interested in understanding the relationship between Christianity and ecology. The course will cover topics such as biodiversity, climate change, and the relationship between humans, Earth, and the cosmos.

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Climate Scientist

This course may be useful for Climate Scientists who are seeking to incorporate a Christian theological perspective into their work. The course will cover topics such as Christian Integral Ecology, Cry of the Earth, Cry of the Poor, and Climate Change.

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Environmental Scientist

This course may be useful to Environmental Scientists who wish to incorporate a Christian theological perspective into their work. The course will introduce you to the concept of ecotheology and its implications for environmental protection and conservation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Scientist