Interfaith Environmental Network has sponsored many symposia on topics integrating spirituality and environmental stewardship!
Click on a link below to learn about current and past symposium topics!
March, 2017
Water Is Life: An Interfaith Preach-Off
W.H. Auden once said, “Thousands have lived without love, not one without water.” As people guided by divine Love, come deepen your theological understanding of water and learn about the state of water in today’s world. Religious leaders from a variety of congregations and traditions will share brief teachings and you will hear from experts in the field. This is the third annual preach-off on climate change. As in years past, this promises to be a fun, interactive, yet weighty discussion. This preach-off is focused around water, for water is the medium through which we will all experience climate change.
Besides the learning, inspiration and networking with other faithful environmentalists, this is probably your only chance to hear a series of gifted preachers and lay people fully committed to giving a sermon of no more than 5 minutes in length! ;-)
March 26, 2017 - 4:00-7:00pm
LOCATION: Servant Church, 1605 E. 38 1/2 St., Austin, TX 78722 in the Cherrywood neighborhood of Austin.
LIST OF SPEAKERS TO BE POSTED SHORTLY!
September, 2016
Understanding The PACE Initiative And How It Can Help Your Faith Community Become A Better Steward of Creation
A new, state-sponsored financing option enables nonprofits—including houses of worship!—to obtain affordable, long-term loans covering up to 100 percent of the cost for energy efficiency, water saving, and onsite generation technologies. The PACE (Property Assessed Clean Energy) program is now available in the cities of Dallas and Houston, Travis County, Williamson County, and two counties in the Rio Grande Valley: Cameron and Willacy.
One congregation in Austin became the first in Texas to benefit from PACE financing. Come hear their story and learn how PACE might work for your congregation!
Wednesday, September 7, 2016, 7:00-8:30pm
3901 Shoal Creek Blvd.
Austin, TX 78756
Light refreshments will be served.
Featuring guest speakers:
Jennifer Smith, Executive Director, Congregation Beth Israel
Charlene Heydinger, President, The Texas PACE Authority
This event is co-sponsored by
Interfaith Environmental Network
December, 2015
IEN Presents
An Interfaith Climate Vigil
of Solidarity, Prayer and Hope
Marking The
Paris Climate Talks
The United Nations global climate talks will convene in Paris, November 30 to December 11, 2015. World leaders are expected to adopt a new protocol to reduce global carbon emissions, replacing the 1997 Kyoto Protocol. Leaders will also consider how to help the world’s poorest, developing countries adapt to climate change.
Our leaders need to see grassroots support for climate action, which is what the IEN Interfaith Climate Vigil is all about! Other cities throughout Texas will also hold Climate Vigils that evening.
The program begins with local faith leaders sharing and reflecting upon the proclamations that their individual traditions and religious bodies have made regarding climate change and protection of the environment.
Bee Moorhead
Yaira Robinson
We will also participate in an exclusive, LIVE VIDEO FEED from the Paris Climate Talks, featuring Bee Moorhead and Yaira Robinson of Texas Impact and Texas Interfaith Power and Light.
Our evening will wrap up with a chance for attendees to brainstorm next steps and future initiatives.
WHERE: Congregation Beth Israel, 3901 Shoal Creek Boulevard, 78756
WHEN: Thursday, December 3, 2015, 7 to 8:30 p.m.
May, 2015
Austin’s Interfaith Environmental Network
is proud to announce its May, 2015 Symposium -
Food, Faith & Climate, Part III:
Congregations, Composting
and Keeping Austin Fed
Thursday, May 14, 2015, 7:00 p.m.
University United Methodist Church
2409 Guadalupe Street, 78705
- Preventing food waste!
- Helping with safe food distribution!
- Sharing extra food with those who need it!
Keep Austin Fed will share their experience and insights on how to get extra food to people in need, and avoid wasting food.
Teresa Chapman, Austin Resource Recovery
We are also pleased to welcome Teresa Chapman to our May Symposium. Organic diversion, including composting, is Teresa’s specialty within the business community. Through Austin Resource Recovery, Teresa works with restaurants, grocery stores, hotels, assisted living facilities and other food service companies to support organic waste reduction.
April, 2015
FOOD, FAITH AND CLIMATE, PART II
Join us Thursday, April 16th for the second of four monthly symposia to focus on connections between food, faith, and climate!
This month, Rabbi Neil Blumofe will help us explore these connections through a Jewish lens. In Jewish time, this year is a Sabbatical Year, meant to offer rest to the land and free access to food for all. How can this and other Jewish teachings guide us today, as we seek to restore relationships between our selves, the land, and others in our community?
We will also explore practical ideas about food with three guest speakers who are working on the ground to reshape our local community with the exceptionally cool Festival Beach Food Forest project:
Elizabeth Walsh, Ph.D. Candidate in Community and Regional Planning at The University of Texas at Austin;
Olivia Sanchez, a recent graduate of Huston-Tillotson University and a founding member of the student organization, Green Is The New Black; and
Christopher Sanchez, Culture & Arts (History & Nature) Education Specialist at Zilker Botanical Garden
Thursday, April 16, 2015, 7:00pm
Congregation Agudas Achim, on the Dell Jewish Community Center Campus
7300 Hart Lane
Austin, TX 78731
Click here for a map of the event venue!
IEN’s mission is: "Inspiring and assisting Austin’s religious communities to lead the effort to care for the earth and to transform ways of life that cause climate change."
March, 2015
SYMPOSIUM SERIES ON
FOOD, FAITH AND CLIMATE BEGINS!
Join us for this first of four monthly symposiums as we focus on the connections between our food, our faith, and our climate. Kicking us off will be Dr. Molly Jensen, Assistant Professor of Religion at Southwestern University; and Edwin Marty, City of Austin’s new Food Policy Manager.
Dr. Jensen will guide us in making the connections between food, faith and climate as it relates to Lent, a season of prayerful observation preceding Easter. She will include a discussion of Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, and Native American indigenous traditions in addition to Christianity. http://www.southwestern.edu/departments/faculty/faculty.php?id=jensenm&style=religion
Mr. Edwin Marty will emphasize the food and climate change connection based on his work at the Office of Sustainability. http://www.austintexas.gov/blog/edwin-marty-joins-office-sustainability
Feel free to come at 6:30pm (before the symposium begins at 7pm) for a tour of the Third Day Community Garden on the grounds of The Sanctuary - located at 2614 Exposition Blvd., Austin, TX 78703.
IEN’s mission is: "Inspiring and assisting Austin’s religious communities to lead the effort to care for the earth and to transform ways of life that cause climate change."
October, 2014
Interfaith Environmental Network of Austin
is proud to present our
Fall Symposium:
"It's Time For Your Congregation To Go Solar!”
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2014
St. David's Episcopal Church
301 E. 8th Street, Austin, TX
7 to 8:30 p.m
COME ON, ADMIT IT:
YOU WISH
YOUR PLACE OF WORSHIP
HAD
SOLAR PANELS,
DON'T YOU???
Yep...
Many of Austin's houses of worship would LOVE to protect Creation by installing solar panels, helping to meet their energy needs in a green, renewable way! Yet many of these same congregations have yet to take the plunge.
If you belong to one of these "on the fence" communities, then you know that the best intentions can get bogged down in all kinds of confusing questions:
- How can we deal with the startup costs?
- How much will we really save on our electric bill?
- What's the current status of rebates and other government incentives?
- How can Austin Energy help us?
- What are the congregational politics of such a project and how can they be dealt with?
- How do we choose a contractor?
YOU'VE GOT QUESTIONS?
INTERFAITH ENVIRONMENTAL NETWORK
OF AUSTIN
HAS ANSWERS!
The evening's program will feature:
- Leslie Libby of Austin Energy on installing solar.
- Volunteer solar project leaders from three Austin congregations telling the stories of their community's journey to solar energy.
- Time for discussion and visits with representatives of three solar contractors who have completed congregational projects in Austin:
- Meridian Solar, Lighthouse Solar and Texas Solar Power
- Fellowship and networking with members of other congregations!
HERE’S A SLIDE SHOW OF THE OCTOBER SYMPOSIUM:
October 2014 Symposium Photos
April, 2014
Invites You to Attend our Monthly Symposium
7:00 pm, Tuesday, April 1, 2014
at Friends Meeting of Austin
This month’s presentation and Q&A:
Fair, Affordable, and Green:
Faithfully Building Our Energy Future
The City of Austin is at the beginning stages of an important
conversation about our electricity future. This conversation, now underway,
will determine the sources of Austin’s energy mix—coal, natural gas, solar,
wind, energy-efficiency, etc.—for the next several decades. Because the sources
of our community’s energy affect our health and environment as well as our
pocketbooks, and because the faith community has deep interests in ensuring the
well being of all people today and for generations to come, it is important
that Austin’s faith community offer leadership and participate in the
conversation.
Join us on April 1 to learn about the planning process and
to explore the complexity of these issues.
Austin Energy’s Khalil Shalabi
Khalil Shalabi is Vice President of Energy Market Operations and Resource Planning at Austin Energy. He will offer a presentation on Austin Energy’s proposed plan, and then we’ll have a panel discussion featuring local religious leaders from impacted communities, followed by an open forum Q&A. Audience members are encouraged to ask questions of both Mr. Shalabi and the panel.
Khalil Shalabi has more than 20 years of management experience in the electric utility industry. Prior to joining Austin Energy, he served as Chief Technology Officer and Director of Research & Development and Strategic Planning for the New York Power Authority.
What: Symposium with
Q&A
When: Tuesday, April 1, 2014
7:00pm to 8:30pm
Where: Friends Meeting of Austin (Quaker)
3701 E. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd
Austin, TX 78721
512-452-1841
no cost to attend
free, dedicated parking on site
all are welcome
March, 2014
The Interfaith Environmental Network of Austin (IEN)
Invites
You to Attend our Monthly Symposium
7:00 pm, Tuesday, March 4, 2014
at Central Presbyterian Church
(parking info below)
- John-Michael Cortez (CapMetro, Austin)
- Jennifer Cregar (Green Mountain Energy)
- Zach Baumer (City of Austin Climate Protection Program)
YOU ARE INVITED TO:
Green Your Transportation!
Join us for an engaging symposium with four experts on sustainable transportation.
How does one "green" their transportation in 2014? Join
host Joep Meijer (president, The Right Environment,
Ltd.; co-founder/chair, ClimateBuddies.org) as he helps us understand what we
can gain by mitigating our tailpipe emissions, and facilitates the deeper
discussion around what opportunities are available today in
Austin.
John-Michael Cortez, Community Engagement Manager for Austin's
Capital Metro, will help us understand what public transportation offerings we
have locally and take a survey about your views for future services. Jennifer
Cregar, Sustainability Manager at Green Mountain Energy, will help us
understand how to offset air travel and other emissions through smart use of
today's carbon offset products. Zach Baumer, Program Manager for
the City of Austin's Climate Protection Program, will educate us on what
the City has done to green its fleets, where it's going, and how you can take
advantage of City incentives for purchasing electric vehicles. It's going
to be an informative and inspiring evening.
Join us in learning how to lower transportation emissions
and become better stewards of the creation!
What: Symposium with
Q&A
When: Tuesday, 3/4/14
7:00pm to 8:30pm
Where: Central Presbyterian Church
“Fellowship Hall” (map)
200 E. 8th Street
Austin, TX 78701
512-472-2445
no cost to attend
free parking -->
all are welcome!
Parking is FREE after 6pmdowntown, and in lot directly behind Central Presbyterian.
Park for FREE in lot next to UPS, or in free street slot.
Parking lot is directly behind Central Presbyterian Church at 200 E. 9th Street.
February, 2014
7:00 pm Tuesday, Feb 4, 2014
at Central Presbyterian
Church
This month’s
presentation and Q&A:
Save Energy at
Home
with help from: Austin Energy
Save Money and Reduce Your Carbon Footprint!
You may think saving energy is small potatoes – but a new group of environmental stewards calls energy efficiency “our greatest energy resource.” In fact, according to the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy, the average US home can easily reduce its energy bills 25% to 35% year-round with basic efficiency improvements.
Fortunately for us, the City of Austin has numerous programs to help cover the costs of such improvements. Join us in learning from Steve Saenz, Residential Program Delivery Manager at Austin Energy, about our City’s world-leading rebate, incentive, and financing programs for home energy efficiency. And, go further by joining us in learning from John Umphress, Conservation Specialist, Austin Energy Green Building, about unique solutions you can implement to meet Austin’s energy efficiency challenges.
Learn how Austin Energy can help you save money, SAVING MONEY!
What: Symposium with Q&A
When: Tue, 11/5/13,
7pm to 8:30pm
Where: Central Presbyterian Church
200 E. 8th St, 78701; (512) 472-2445
all are welcome!
January, 2014
6:30 pm MONDAY, Jan. 13, 2014
at First Baptist Church
IEN Energy Action Team, 2012
This month's presentation:
“Green Shepherds” Launch
(& Potluck!)
In 2012 ClimateBuddies.org led our Energy Action Team to accomplish some amazing things: helping local congregations eliminate 1,000,000 lbs of CO2 pollution and releasing our climate action manual for congregations, “Becoming Carbon Positive” – to name just two.
The culmination of their work is a new program for houses of worship, Green Shepherds. The Green Shepherds program helps Austin congregations understand exactly where their most effective investments can be made in response to the climate crisis, and nurtures provides support for doing so.
Join us Monday, Jan. 13, for a special symposium of renewal, fellowship and education. Learn from “beta” Green Shepherd congregations about their experiences on the road to becoming carbon positive. Hear expert speakers update us on the climate crisis and explain how the Green Shepherds program works. Come early to enjoy some fellowship!
Program includes:
- Climate Crisis Review & Victory Scenario
- Green Shepherds Program Explanation
- Testimonials from Local, Beta Congregations
- Beta Congregation Commissioning
- Interactive Activities
“Beta” congregations include:
- Austin Zen Center
- Congregation Beth Israel
- Congregational Church, UCC
- Faith Presbyterian Church
- First Baptist ChurchSt. Andrew’s Presbyterian
- Wildflower Church, UU
Speakers:
- Joep Meijer (The Right Environment)
- Bob Murray (CEO, Seattle Power & Light, retrd)
- Richard Halprin (CEO, American Youth Works, retrd)
- Dr. Patty Stephens (director, Texas Gov. Office, retrd)
- Rodney Macias (founder, Green Shepherds Program)
- Rev. Tom VandeStadt (pastor, Congregational Church, UCC).
Join us from 6:30 to 8:45 for this special evening. We look forward to seeing you!
What: Symposium with Q&A
When: Monday, 1/13/14
Potluck & Fellowship: 6:30pm to 7:15pm
Symposium: 7:15pm to 8:45pm
Where: First Baptist Church of Austin (map)
“Fellowship Hall” (Ground Floor)
901 Trinity Street, Austin, TX 78701
512-476-2625
Cost: no cost to attend; parking is free
Food: please bring vegetarian-friendly dishes
Who
Can Come: all
are welcome!
November, 2013
IS YOUR CONGREGATION SAVING ENOUGH $?
7:00 pm Tuesday, Nov 5, 2013
at Faith Presbyterian Church
This month’s presentation and Q&A:
Energy Conservation & Production
part 1: for Worship Facilities
Join us in learning from Kerri Davis, Commercial and Key Accounts Manager at Austin Energy, about: rate changes, energy efficiency incentives, financing, and rebates, and carbon-free energy production for houses of worship in the Austin area.
Austin Energy has a number of programs with “moving parts,” which can be difficult to navigate. Ms. Davis will explain Austin Energy’s new electricity rates for houses of worship, the IROW (interactive rebate workbook), energy efficiency rebates available to houses of worship, new batch information for Austin Energy’s wind power program, what it takes to get solar panels installed on your religious facility, and more.
Kerri Davis leads Austin Energy’s key accounts team. She is an expert in green power, energy conservation, demand response, and more. Kerri plans to utilize this meeting to introduce herself and colleague Neil Leach as a resource to Austin’s houses of worship.
Learn how Austin Energy can help your congregation SAVE MONEY and become a better creation steward!
What: Symposium with Q&A
When: Tue, 11/5/13,
7pm to 8:30pm
Where: Faith Presbyterian Church
co-host: Wildflower Church
1314 E. Oltorf Drive, 78731 (map link)
(512) 444-1314; free parking on site
all are welcome!
UPDATE: KERI DAVIS’ POWERPOINT PRESENTATION IS NOW AVAILABLE IN PDF FORM ON OUR DOWNLOADS PAGE.
October, 2013
7:00 pm Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2013
at Faith Presbyterian Church
This month's symposium:
Discovering Your Green Team
Dr. Patty Stephens
Allen Cooper
Group dynamics expert Dr. Patty Stephens and National Wildlife Federation education advocacy director Allen Cooper will explore: How to get the fire going? What are your team's strengths? Who needs to be added? How do you develop a strategy for success? And, how do you build congregational support for your team's goals?
Dr. Patty Stephens is a Kellogg Foundation National Leadership Fellow and former director of Management and Budget for the Texas Governor's Office Health and Human Services programs. Her nonprofit work includes launching a group, which now serves over 3 million clients. Patty is an active member of St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church and its Climate Changers Team. She holds a Ph.D. in Human Resources and Organizational Development from the University of Texas at Austin.
Allen Cooper is Director of State and Local Education Advocacy at the National Wildlife Federation, where he develops state and municipal policy to connect people with nature. He is a member at Friends Meeting of Austin (Quaker) and co-founder of the Interfaith Environmental Network of Austin. Allen holds degrees in public policy from Princeton and law from the University of Texas at Austin.
Join us in learning how to make your green team more effective!
What: Symposium with Q&A_
When: Tue, 10/1/13, 7pm to 8:30pm
Where: Faith Presbyterian Church
1314 E Oltorf, Austin, TX 78704
512-428-9464
Co-hosted by Wildflower Church, UU
no cost, free parking
all are welcome
September, 2013
7:00 pm Tuesday, Sep. 3, 2013
at Faith Presbyterian Church
This month's presentation:
Reading God's Book of Nature
with Dr. Laurence Meissner
Professor Laurence Meissner, Ph.D., noted Lutheran biologist and scripture scholar, will share his perspective on nature and its care. An esteemed professor from Concordia University, Austin, Dr. Meissner will discuss his views regarding our religious responsibility to the creation.
Dr. Meissner is professor of Biology at Concordia University, respected in equal measure for both his fieldwork and philosophical discourse.
The Lutheran tradition asserts that God revealed Himself to man in three ways: through Holy Scripture, through the Word made flesh in the person of His Son Jesus Christ, and through the handiwork of His Creation. As such, each revelation has authority, but each speaks to us in different ways and each addresses specific questions about who we are and how we should live. This presentation synthesizes elements from these revelations to create a framework for how Lutherans view nature and man’s responsibility for its use and care.
Dr. Meissner holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education from Concordia University, Nebraska, a Master’s degree in Biology from Eastern Michigan University, and a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Science Education from the University of Texas at Austin.
This session will include Q&A. Bring your questions and join us in considering and being inspired by, the spiritual basis for environmental stewardship!
What: Symposium with
Q&A
When: Tue, 9/3/13, 7pm to
8:30pm
Where: Faith Presbyterian Church (location)
Wildflower Unitarian
Universalist (host)
1314 E
Oltorf, Austin, TX 78704
512-428-9464
no cost, free parking
all are welcome!
June, 2013
This month's presentation:
Coal, Health, & You!
7:00 pm Tuesday, June 4, 2013
at Highland Park Baptist Church
You may have heard: coal is bad for human health and other forms of life, but have you seen the evidence? Physicians for Social Responsibility, America’s largest physician-led advocacy group, uses health data to advocate for protecting the public from what it considers to be threats to our survival. In 1985 “PSR” won the Nobel Peace Prize for its leadership.
On Tuesday, June 4th, Chris Masey (dir., Austin PSR) and Elliot Trester, M.D. (treas., Austin PSR), will present a lecture on environmental degradation, climate change, and coal's role in toxifying our children, ourselves, and the creation. Their presentation will touch on environmental justice, environmental health, and Austin PSR’s campaign to retire five of Texas’ dirtiest coal plants, including Austin’s Fayette Power Plant.
Come, join us in learning from the best about how to put the voice for public health into the conversation on environmental stewardship!
About Presenters:
- Chris Masey, MBA, is Director of the Austin Chapter of Physicians for Social Responsibility (austinpsr.org). Chris is a fifteen-year environmental professional who has worked on a diverse set of projects throughout Central Texas focusing on public health, conservation, land stewardship, alternative energy, recycling, environmental planning, and solid waste.
- Dr. Elliot Trester graduated from medical school in Toledo, Ohio, in 1978. After a two year residency at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio and two years in Puerto Rico with the National Health Service, Elliot started his private family practice in Austin in 1984. Dr. Trester is a founding member of the Austin chapter of PSR.
What: Symposium
with Q&A
When: Tue, 6/4/13, 7pm to
8:30pm
Where: Highland Park Baptist Church
5206 Balcones Drive, 78731
no cost
free parking
all welcome!
HERE'S VIDEO OF THE JUNE, 2013 SYMPOSIUM!
May, 2013
Getting to Zero (Waste)
7:00 pm Tuesday, May 7, 2013
at Highland Park Baptist Church
with Bob Gedert, Director, Austin Resource Recovery
- Did you know that “Zero Waste” means much more than simply recycling everything?
- Did you know how Austin expects to achieve Zero Waste by 2040?
- Come explore answers to these questions at our next symposium.
This month’s symposium will begin with an introduction from our own David Hogan, member of IEN’s Energy Action Team and the Austin Zero Waste Alliance. David will review the meanings of Zero Waste, which includes notions such as “extended producer responsibility” and designing products for deconstructable, salvageable, and non-toxic product component reuse. Zero Waste practices also bring deeper economic, social, and environmental benefits to communities, such as: resource conservation, climate protection, pollution prevention, job creation, and reduced business costs.
Featured speaker Bob Gedert, director of Austin Resource Recovery (formerly the City of Austin’s Solid Waste Services Department) and vice president of the National Recycling Coalition, will give an update on current Zero Waste programs such as: Pay-As-You-Throw, the Single-use Bag Ordinance, Universal Recycling, Hazardous Waste, and Curbside Organics Collection, as well as an outline of future programs from Austin’s Zero Waste Master Plan.
Getting to zero is going to require the general citizenry pulling together to get the job done and houses of worship are in a unique position to provide leadership. Join us in learning from Austin’s Zero Waste experts about how you can participate!
What: Symposium with Q&A
Where: Highland
Park Baptist Church
5206 Balcones Drive, 78731 (map link here)
(512) 453-6603; free parking on site, all are welcome!
When: Tue, 5/7/13, 7pm to 8:30pm
April, 2013
7:00 pm Tuesday, April 2, 2013
at Highland Park Baptist Church
This month's presentation:
Honoring the Sabbath,
Caring for Creation
-- a Jewish perspective
Rabbi Steven Folberg has held the position of Senior Rabbi at Congregation Beth Israel since 1991. As an early green adopter committed to Tikkun Olam -- "healing the world," Rabbi Folberg helped co-found the Interfaith Environmental Network.
Tuesday evening, April 2nd, Rabbi Folberg will share Jewish teachings about how practicing the Sabbath connects to caring for creation. We will study ancient and contemporary texts from diverse Jewish sources, including the Hebrew Bible, that lead us to concrete practices that teach the values of rest, renewal and respect for the created world.
Join us in hearing from one of Austin's religious leaders on the deep links between faith and the environment.
When: Tue, 4/2/13, 7pm to 8:30pm
Where: Highland Park Baptist Church
5206 Balcones Drive , 78731 (downtown Austin)
(512) 453-6603; free parking on site, all are welcome!
March, 2013
7:00 pm Tuesday, March 5, 2013
at St. David’s Episcopal Church
This month's presentation:
How to Start & Sustain a Green Team in
Your House of Worship
Ever wonder how others in Austin’s faith community are caring for creation? Looking for ideas on how to get a green team going in your house of worship, raise funds, and keep the good work going—while having fun and building community at the same time?
Join us on Tuesday, March 5th to hear from green team leaders representing several different Austin congregations. They’ll share stories of their experiences “greening” their congregations and working within their communities—including success stories, challenges, and lessons learned.
Yaira A. Robinson of Texas Interfaith Power & Light will facilitate the program.
Special News Item: State leaders are proposing cuts to state park funding. Fortunately, there’s a good solution. Ian Davis (Keep Texas Parks Open) will quickly share info about how we can ensure future generations are able to enjoy Texas’s great outdoors.
When: Tue, 3/5/13, 7:00pm to 8:30pm
Where: St. David’s Episcopal Church
301 East 8th Street, 78701 (downtown Austin)
(512) 610-3500; free parking; All are welcome!
UPDATE: We've now posted an informative slideshow of photos from this Symposium.
February, 2013
7:00 pm Tuesday, February 5, 2013
at St. David’s Episcopal Church
This month's presentation:
Getting Your Congregation
“Green Certified”
St. David's Episcopal Church began its environmental care mission in 2004. Since then the St. David's Environmental Guild has accomplished many firsts for the Austin area, including their recent, dual completion of GreenFaith.org's Green Certification program and The City of Austin's Green Business Leaders program.
Join us Tue Feb. 5 to learn how people just like you have worked within their own faith community to positively change "operations" and behavior. Rosera Tatiosian (chair, Environmental Guild) will present on St. David's tools and processes. Catherine Lee Doar (LEED A.P.) will present on St. David's outstanding accomplishments and future vision. Marc Coudert (Environmental Program Coordinator, Austin Sustainability Office, Austin) will present on the City's efforts to promote green practices via its Austin Green Business Leaders program. Learn about "how to" get green certified and the many rewards for doing so!
When: Tue, 2/5/13, 7pm to 8:30pm
Where: St. David’s Episcopal Church
301 East 8th Street, 78701 (downtown Austin)
(512) 610-3500; free parking
January, 2013
7:00 pm Tuesday, January 8, 2013
at St. David's Episcopal Church
This month's presentation:
The City Dark
Documentary screening & discussion
"When you look at the night sky, you realize how small we are.”
Do we need the night sky? Are we less likely to see ourselves as a part of nature and God's Creation if most of us can't see the stars at night? What effect is light pollution having on our ability to hear the call to environmental stewardship?
The City Dark -- winner, “Grand Jury Prize, Best Feature,” Yale Environmental Film Festival, is an investigation of these questions and more. Join us in viewing this excellent film and exploring related questions Tuesday January 8th. Group discussion led by Texas Interfaith Power and Light's Amanda Yaira Robinson and local clergy. Hope to see you!
When: Tue, 1/8/13, 7pm to 8:30pm
Where: St. David's Episcopal Church
301 East 8th Street, 78701 (downtown Austin)
(512) 610-3500; free parking
November, 2012
The Interfaith Environmental Network of Austin
Invites You to Attend our Monthly Symposium
7:00 pm to 8:30 pm
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary
in the Hazel McCord Community Center
100 East 27th Street, in Central Austin
This month's presentation:
"Faithful Climate Action, 2.0"
Our 1st Annual Report, Launch and Celebration
of Tools for Central Texas Congregations
One year ago, select members of Austin's Interfaith Environmental Network began an ambitious partnership with Climate Buddies, an all-volunteer group of climate and energy professionals. From this partnership our Energy Action Team was born, meeting three weeks out of every month to build climate mitigation tools for congregations and congregants. Our Team's efforts have proven productive!
Join us next Tuesday:
- Presentation: on the state of the climate, Team accomplishments, and "Carbon Positive" actions implemented by Austin congregations: St. Andrew's, Central Presbyterian, Austin Zen Center, and First UU.
- Launch: "Becoming Carbon Positive" the Team manual for congregational climate action.
- Party: Birthday style reception for the Energy Action Team & event attendees.
Listen, share, ask questions, and enjoy a little birthday cake!
Map to event.
Here's Part 1 and Part 2 of a report on this Symposium!
Visit Facebook for more info.
October, 2012
INTERFAITH ENVIRONMENTAL NETWORK
Invites You to Attend our Monthly Symposium
7:00 pm Tuesday, October 2, 2012
at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary
in the Hazel McCord Community Center
100 East 27th Street, in Central Austin
This month’s symposium
Finding our Place in Nature:
an Interfaith Perspective
Part II
Please join the Interfaith Environmental Network for our second interfaith panel discussion on the relationship between humans and nature, and spiritual practices that can help us find this relationship.
Featured Panelists:
Kosho McCall, Head Priest, Austin Zen Center
Imam Islam Mossaad, North Austin Muslim Community Center
Rev. Tom Van de Stadt, Pastor, Congregational Church of Austin
We welcome your participation in this special panel and Q&A. Please post and share this event!
When: Tue, 10/2/12, 7pm to 8:30pm
Where: Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary
Hazel McCord Community Center building
100 East 27th St. (on UT campus), 78705
(512) 404-8400
Free parking
September, 2012
IEN PRESENTS ITS SEPTEMBER SYMPOSIUM: THE STATE OF WATER
With Texans currently experiencing drought conditions not seen since the 1950s, the Dallas Morning News “Texas Faith Blog” asked the question, “Should We Pray for Rain?” The consensus from theologians and clergy alike was “yes!”
Our traditions mandate not only words of prayer, but prayerful deeds, as well. What, then, can we do to preserve Texas rivers and conserve all our water resources?
Andy Sansom
Books by Andy Sansom
Andrew Sansom
Texas Lost: Vanishing Heritage
Andrew Sansom
Join us at 7pm on Tuesday, September 4th at Congregation Beth Israel as we discuss this topic. On that night we will welcome Andrew Sansom, Director of the River Systems Institute at Texas State University. One of Texas’ leading conservationists and an active member of Central Presbyterian Church, Andrew will talk with us about the state of water in Texas and we'll explore ways that Texans of faith can engage on this issue.
Andrew Sansom is one of Texas’ leading conservationists. He is a former executive director of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, executive director of the Texas Nature Conservancy, and founder of The Parks and Wildlife Foundation of Texas. For his commitment to the management and protection of natural resources, Mr. Sansom also is a past recipient of the Chevron Conservation Award, The Chuck Yeager Award from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, The Pugsley Medal from the National Park Foundation, and the Seton Award from the International Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. He is a Distinguished Alumnus of Texas Tech University and Austin College.
Under his leadership at the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Mr. Sansom spearheaded a number of important programs, including creating the Parks and Wildlife Foundation of Texas, which funds a number of department programs through private donations.
Mr. Sansom, a native of Brazoria County, has dedicated his life to environmental conservation. He has served on the board of trustees of the Texas Historical Foundation, Bat Conservation International, KLRU Public Television in Austin, and The National Audubon Society. Sansom joined the staff of the National Recreation and Park Association in Washington, D.C. in 1969. He served as environmental coordinator for the White House Conference on Youth; Special Assistant to Interior Secretary Rogers C.B. Morton; director of conservation education at the Federal Energy Administration; and deputy director of the Energy Institute at the University of Houston.
His published works have appeared in Texas Monthly, The Texas Observer, Houston City Magazine, Politics Today, Texas Highways, Texas Parks and Wildlife, and Texas Town & City. His first book, Texas Lost, was photographed by Wyman Meinzer and published in November 1995. His most recent book is Texas Past, photographed by Wyman Meinzer and published in November 1997.
June, 2012
The Interfaith Environmental Network of Austin
Invites You to Attend our Monthly Symposium
7:00 pm Tuesday, June 5, 2012
at Congregation Beth Israel
3901 Shoal Creek Boulevard in Central Austin
This month’s symposium
"Finding our Place in Nature:
an Interfaith Perspective"
Please join the Interfaith Environmental Network for an interfaith panel discussion on the proper relationship between humans and nature, and spiritual practices that can help us find this relationship.
Featured Panelists:
- Rev. Tom Van de Stadt, Pastor, Congregational Church of Austin
- Kosho McCall, Head Priest, Austin Zen Center
- Barbara Budde, Director, Social Concerns Office, Catholic Diocese of Austin
- Imam Islam Mossaad of the North Austin Muslim Community Center
- Rabbi Rachel Kobrin, Assistant Rabbi, Congregation Agudas Achim
We welcome your participation in this special panel and Q&A. Please post and share this event!
See photos from this Symposium here.
May, 2012
Interfaith Environmental Network
Invites You to Attend our Monthly Symposium
7:00 pm Tuesday, May 1, 2012
St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church
14311 Wells Port Dr. (north Austin)
This month’s symposium features a discussion on
"Energy Efficiency!"
led by Climate Buddies co-founder Bob Murray.
Energy Efficiency is the fastest way to meet our energy needs. It's also the most economical, lowest risk investment a congregation can make. Energy Efficiency is available to almost all energy users, it creates LOCAL jobs, is environmentally intelligent, and is the foundation of an all-renewable energy future.
Join us next Tuesday to learn about becoming a powerful practitioner and promoter of Energy Efficiency. This visual, interactive session will explore some of the opportunities available for “moving the Energy Efficiency ball up the field.” Please post this event to your calendar and bring questions!
When: Tue, 5/1, 7pm to 8:30pm
Where: St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church
14311 Wells Port Dr. (north Austin)
(512) 251-0698
Free parking on site.
View map to event.
For more information visit the Climate Buddies website, or contact Climate Buddies’ co-founders Patty Stephens (drpatty@drpattystephens.com) or Bob Murray (transition2038@yahoo.com). We hope to see you!
April, 2012
The Interfaith Environmental Network of Austin
Invites You to Attend our Monthly Symposium
7:00 pm Tuesday, April 3, 2012
St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church
14311 Wells Port Dr. (north Austin)
Thomas Berry
This month’s symposium features a discussion of
"The Great Story:
Life and Work of Eco-theologian Thomas Berry.”
led by members of the IEN Steering Team.
Our April 3rd IEN Symposium will focus on the spiritual aspects of environmental stewardship and earth care. We will be viewing and discussing the award-winning film entitled, “The Great Story: The Life and Work of the Famous Eco-theologian Thomas Berry.”
As a pioneer in the field of spirituality and ecology, Thomas Berry created a quiet revolution. He was a Catholic monk, a cultural historian, an author, a teacher, and a mystic.
Berry saw his life work as waking humanity up to the sacred story of creation. He called us "mad" for the way we are despoiling our home, our planet, its beauty, and its living systems. He was a force that reminded us that we are living through the greatest extinction spasm of the past 65 million years. Since humans are primarily responsible for this degradation of creation, Berry urged us to change our ways of living in the world.
At the heart of the film is Berry's experience of the universe as a cosmic liturgy. He reminds us that "we are not a collection of objects but a communion of subjects." His values were rooted in this sacred cosmology which includes the entire natural world. The mountains, rivers, birds, fish, all living organisms are not there for our use but for a union which is needed for us to become who we are. As Berry said, "I am not myself without everything else."
Berry was instrumental in establishing The Forum on Religion and Ecology, now based at Yale University, which has helped to create a new field of study and teaching in religion and ecology that has implications for environmental policy.
His best known writings include: The Christian Future and the Fate of Earth (2009); Evening Thoughts: Reflecting on Earth as Sacred Community (2006); and The Great Work: Our Way into the Future (1999). For a complete list of books, click here.
When: Tue, 4/3, 7pm to 8:30pm
Where: St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church
14311 Wells Port Dr. (north Austin)
(512) 251-0698
Free parking on site.
View a map to the event.
March 2012
The Interfaith
Environmental Network of Austin
Invites You to Attend our Monthly
Symposium
7:00 pm Tuesday, Mar 6th, 2012
at
St. David’s Episcopal Church
(downtown Austin)
“Solar Energy:
Pragmatics + Opportunities
for Austin, Now!"
This month’s symposium features an open discussion and Q&A with
Karl Rábago (VP Distributed Energy Services, Austin Energy)
Bob Murray (Energy Consultant, former GM Seattle City Light)
Mike Sloan (Founder and President, Virtus Energy)
Stan Pipkin (Managing Director, Lighthouse Solar)
This spectacular panel of solar electricity experts will address exciting opportunities for cooperative purchasing of solar panel equipment for homes and houses of worship, good news in today’s solar industry, practical steps for participating in cost reduction programs, and much more.
Join us! These are exciting times for incorporating solar energy in your world. Come learn from Austin’s finest about what you and your congregation can do to save money and become more effective environmental stewards.
When: Tue, 3/6/12, 7pm to 8:30pm
Where: St. David’s Episcopal Church
301 East 8th Street
Austin, TX 78701
(Map)
Cost: Attendance & parking are free.
The
Interfaith Environmental Network is
a partner of Texas Impact and Interfaith Power and Light. We welcome adults in Central
Texas who are interested in linking religious values with caring for creation.
Our network shares resources, actions and education for living out the common
call of environmental stewardship. http://interfaithenvironment.org/
© 2012 Interfaith Environmental Network
February, 2012
The Interfaith Environmental Network of Austin
Invites You to Attend our Monthly Symposium
7:00 pm Tuesday, Feb 7, 2012
301 E 8th St. (downtown Austin)
This month’s featured presenter, topic, and Q&A-
Dick Pierce, co-founder, Citizen Gardener Program
“Understanding Local Food, Local Gardening,
and Faith-Based Community Gardens"
Join us for our first ever symposium on Local Food, Gardening and Gardens with Dick Pierce, Austin's lead permaculture teacher, a certified master gardener, and a long-term advocate for community-building through gardening. Austin's unique planting season is mid-January thru mid-March so now's the time to get started! Learn what faith-based groups in Austin and around the U.S. are doing to add feeding and outreach programs, youth education, senior activities and more to their ministries. Dick is a masterful teacher. Expect lots of information, education, and fun. Check our blog for more about Dick's presentation, next week. See a video of Dick being interviewed by Tom Spencer (exec. dir., Interfaith Action of Central Texas / host, Central Texas Gardener).
The Interfaith Environmental Network welcomes those in faith communities in Central Texas who are interested in linking religious values and spirituality with environmental stewardship. Attendance and parking at this event are free.
When: Tue, 2/7, 7pm to 8:30pm
Where: 301 E 8th St. (downtown Austin)
Free parking on site.
We hope to see you!
View a map to the event.
January, 2012
The Interfaith Environmental Network of Austin
Invites You to Attend our Monthly Symposium
7:00 to 8:30 pm Tuesday, Jan 3rd, 2012
at
St. David’s Episcopal Church
301 E. 8th St. (downtown Austin)
This month’s featured topic and presenter-
Mark Dreyfus, Director, Austin Energy will present a lecture and Q&A,
“Understanding Austin Energy’s Proposed Rate Increases”
Mark Dreyfus, Director of Regulatory and Governmental Affairs at Austin Energy and staff lead for Austin Energy’s rate review process, will present details and answer questions on the proposed electricity rate increase and re-design submitted to City Council December 14, 2011. Mark will focus his presentation on the rate increase’s impact on worship facilities and Austin’s efficiency and sustainability programs.
Learn the latest on Austin Energy’s rate changes here.
Join us! Come participate in the only public presentation and Q&A dedicated to understanding how Austin Energy’s rate increases will impact local congregations and environmental stewardship.
The Interfaith Environmental Network is a partner of Texas Impact and Interfaith Power and Light. We welcome adults and young adults in Central Texas’s faith communities who are interested in linking religious values and spirituality with caring for creation. Our network shares resources, actions and education for living out the common call of environmental stewardship.
November, 2011
IEN Invites You To Our November, 2011 Symposium
7:00 pm on Tuesday, Nov. 1st, 2011
at
Highland Park Baptist Church
5206 Balcones Drive
This month’s featured presenter, topic, and Q&A-
Bob Murray (former CEO, Seattle Power & Light)
Joep Meijer (CEO, The Right Environment, Ltd.)
“The Energy Challenge:
A Moral Imperative for Climate Change”
If you knew you had the chance to work on the biggest environmental problem humankind has ever faced and that there are ways to contribute to the solution – wouldn’t you want to do it?
Bob Murray and Joep Meijer are international environmental consultants committed to helping Austin’s faith-based communities address climate change in substantive ways. This presentation will clearly define ecological concerns related to climate change and begin to chart the course for ongoing, faith-based partnerships that curtail greenhouse gas emissions and implement solutions to the energy challenge.
Presentation will include scientific citations, philosophical writings, and an open question and answer session. After this session’s open Q&A, climate buddies Murray and Meijer will offer those present an opportunity for getting involved in a faith-driven focus group that implements to the global energy challenges by making meaningful contributions on a local level.
The Interfaith Environmental Network welcomes those in faith communities in Central Texas who are interested in linking religious values and spirituality with environmental stewardship concerns. Attendance is free.
Murray and Meijer’s organization: http://climatebuddies.org
October, 2011
The Interfaith Environmental Network of Austin
Invites You to Attend our Monthly Symposium
7:00 pm Tuesday Oct. 4th 2011
at
Highland Park Baptist Church
5206 Balcones Drive (map)
This month’s featured presenter, topic and Q&A–
Greg Meszaros, Director, Austin Water Utility
“Austin’s Water Future, Part 2”
As director of Austin’s Water Utility, Greg Meszaros is perhaps the best qualified person to help attendees understand critical strategies Austinites must implement now to provide ample water for Austin’s future.
Join Mr. Meszaros in an open lecture format to learn about the City’s vision, policies, plans, and opportunities for sustainable water stewardship. This presentation is companion to our outstanding September session, led by local environmentalists Bill Bunch and George Cofer.
Learn more about Greg here.
Visit Austin Water Utility here.
We welcome those in faith communities in Central Texas who are interested in linking religious values and spirituality with environmental stewardship. Join us in sharing resources for inspiring our faith communities to live out the common call of caring for the creation.
September, 2011
The Interfaith Environmental Network of Austin
Invites You to Attend our Monthly Symposium
7:00 pm Tuesday Sept. 6th 2011
at
Highland Park Baptist Church
5206 Balcones Drive
This month’s featured presenters, topic and Q&A–
Bill Bunch, executive director, Save Our Springs Alliance, and
George Cofer, executive director, Hill Country Conservancy.
“Austin’s Water Future.”
Synopsis
What are the critical strategies we need to implement now, as individuals and as members of organizations, to provide ample water for Austin’s future? Come join Austin’s two foremost environmentalists in a discussion about water stewardship and sustainability. Learn about the benefits of conservation, the Save Our Springs view on Water Treatment Plant 4, and the Hill Country Conservancy view on what’s needed to better balance water use in Central Texas.
About Our Speakers
Bill Bunch will address the current struggle in Austin between investing in water conservation and efficiency measures versus investing in expanding water treatment capacity. He will place the struggle in the larger context of past, present and likely future water use and availability in the Colorado River Basin and our Central Texas region. Mr. Bunch will also address "what you can do" to conserve water, both individually and as part of the Austin community.
Bill Bunch has served as Executive Director or General Counsel for the Save Our Springs Alliance for fifteen years. Mr. Bunch has a bachelor's degree in environmental biology from the University of Colorado and a law degree from the University of California at Berkeley. SOS Alliance is a nonprofit, charitable advocacy organization founded in 1992 and dedicated to protecting the land, water and wildlife of the central Texas, Edwards Aquifer region.
George Cofer will talk about the impacts of drought on the lands, waters and “critters” of Texas as well as societal impacts – now, and during the drought of record of 1950 - 57. He will explain what Hill Country Conservancy and other non-profit land trusts are doing to conserve our precious water, land and wildlife resources through executing conservation easement agreements with landowners.
George will have 50 copies of “The Time it Never Rained” by Elmer Kelton – acknowledged to be one of the ten greatest Americana books ever written, on hand to give away to attendees.
George Cofer is Executive Director of the Hill Country Conservancy, a nonprofit land trust that marshals public and private resources to preserve the natural areas and scenic vistas, aquifers and springs, rivers and streams, working farms and ranches, and the rural heritage of the Central Texas Hill Country for people to enjoy and cherish for generations to come. George was founding Chair of Earth Share of Texas in 1992 and has received numerous environmental awards over his 20+ year career.
We welcome those in faith communities in Central Texas who are interested in linking religious values and spirituality with environmental stewardship concerns. Join us in sharing resources for inspiring our faith communities to live out the common call to environmental stewardship and caring for the creation.
Learn more about Bill’s leadership at Save Our Springs Alliance here and here.
Learn more about George’s leadership at Hill Country Conservancy here.
August, 2011
Friends of IEN:
We are thrilled with the growth of IEN in recent months! Monthly Symposium attendance is at record highs and our Facebook Page is receiving dozens of “likes” and visits.
In order to take some time to plan for the fall of 2011 and beyond, your IEN Steering Committee will be holding a planing meeting in place of our August, 2011 Symposium. So, no August Symposium, but keep checking back here for news of our September Symposium.
Sincerely,
Your IEN Steering Committee
July, 2011
The Interfaith Environmental Network of Austin
Invites You to Attend our Monthly Symposium
7:00 pm Tuesday July 5th 2011
at
Friends Meeting of Austin
3701 E. Martin Luther King Blvd.
This month’s featured topic and presenter -
Amanda Robinson, Texas Interfaith Power and Light, will present a lecture and Q&A:
New Tools from the Legislative Session: Things Your Congregation Can Do.
As a state-level interfaith leader, Amanda helped pass a number of bills this year that support congregations being better environmental stewards. Newly funded opportunities in energy, food, and social justice projects can help your congregation make a meaningful difference and have some hands-on fun. Join us to learn about “what went right” in the 2011 Texas Legislative Session and how to use these tools.
We welcome those in faith communities in Central Texas who are interested in linking religious values and spirituality with environmental stewardship concerns. Join us in sharing resources for inspiring our faith communities to live out the common call to environmental stewardship and caring for the creation.
Learn more about Amanda’s session here.
Learn more about Amanda & Texas IPL here.
June, 2011
YOU CAN NOW FIND A DETAILED REPORT ON OUR JUNE 7 EVENT IN OUR BLOG SECTION!
The Interfaith Environmental Network of Austin
Invites You to Attend our Monthly Symposium
7:00 pm Tuesday June 7th 2011
at
Friends Meeting of Austin
3701 E. Martin Luther King Blvd.
This month’s featured topic and presenters: Two specialists from The City of Austin Solid Waste Services Department will present a one hour lecture and Q&A,
Reducing Waste, Recycling More:
For Austin Congregations
Presenters Lauren Hammond (Information Specialist) and Woody Raine, P.E., (Senior Planner) will provide an overview of the City’s new “Universal Recycling Ordinance” and discuss departmental plans for achieving zero waste by 2040. Special focus for this session will be upcoming changes in the City’s commercial recycling program due to impact local congregations.
We welcome those in faith communities in Central Texas who are interested in linking religious values and spirituality with environmental stewardship concerns. Join us in sharing resources for inspiring our faith communities to live out the common call to environmental stewardship and caring for the creation.
Helpful Links:
New Universal Recycling Ordinance
May, 2011
YOU ARE INVITED TO ATTEND OUR MAY, 2011, INTERFAITH ENVIRONMENTAL EVENT!
TUESDAY, MAY 3, 2011
LOCATION:
FRIENDS MEETING OF AUSTIN
3701 MARTIN LUTHER KIND BOULEVARD
7:00 P.M.
WITH SPEAKER
DR. BILL GREENWAY
ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF PHILOSOPHICAL THEOLOGY
AUSTIN PRESBYTERIAN THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY
SPEAKING ON “CREATION SPIRITUALITY: ROOTS OF AWAKENING AND PASSION.”
Dr. Greenway focuses upon contemporary conversations among theology and philosophy and church and society. He is especially interested in theology and ecology and spiritually. He speaks regularly at churches, academic conferences, and publishes in journals like The Christian Century, The Journal of Religion, and Theology Today. His course offerings which range from more traditional offerings like "Plato and the Western Intellectual Tradition" and "Theology and Science: Critical Issues in the Contemporary Debate," to more creative offerings like "Nature, Theology, and Ethics" and the experientially based course, "An Adventure in Wilderness and Spirituality."
We welcome those in faith communities in Central Texas who are interested in linking religious values and spirituality with environmental stewardship concerns to join us. We will also have a brief IEN membership meeting immediately following the presentation for the sharing of resources and plans for inspiring our faith communities to live out the common call to environmental stewardship and caring for the creation.
For more information about Dr. Greenway: click here.
Friends Meeting of Austin is located at 3701 East Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard.
April, 2011
Please join IEN at our April Open Meeting!
Tuesday, April 5th, at 7:00 p.m.
Congregation Beth Israel
3901 Shoal Creek Blvd.,
Austin, TX 78756
Our April presenter will be Zack Waterman, the local Texas staff person for Greenpeace. Zach has worked for the Obama Administration as an environmental policy intern and in his current Greenpeace work he is working to call attention to the need to reduce carbon energy dependence in Texas and to mobilize public demonstrations against pollution and the unrestricted transportation of dangerous chemicals across the state.
Zack maintains a great blog on topics related to consumer culture, the environment and other topics of interest to IEN members. Check it out, and please join us on April 5th.
March, 2011
Our Voices Matter: The Importance of Religious Witness in Environmental Justice Work
Featuring Texas Interfaith Power and Light’s Amanda Robinson
IEN was delighted to welcome Amanda Robinson to our March 1, 2011, Open Meeting!
Attendance was excellent and Amanda’s presentation was inspiring.
Amanda Robinson
Amanda Robinson joined the staff of Texas Impact in May 2008 and coordinates Texas Interfaith Power and Light (TXIPL), the environmental program of Texas Impact. TXIPL is one of 38 state Interfaith Power and Light programs. She recently authored a Texas Impact publication on the spiritual significance of food in our religious traditions, exploring issues of hunger, food production, sustainability, consumption and community.
Amanda received her Bachelor of Arts in English at the University of Texas at Arlington in 1999, where she graduated summa cum laude. She worked in publishing for a few years and then in 2004, was hired as the Director of Religious Education (DRE) at First Jefferson Unitarian Universalist Church in Fort Worth. She served there for three years, then for two years at Live Oak Unitarian Universalist Church in Cedar Park, TX. Amanda is a part time student at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, working on a Masters in Theological Studies.
Amanda worships at Congregation Agudas Achim in Austin. She and her husband Mark, the Associate Principal for Curriculum and Instruction at Lake Travis High School, live in Cedar Park with their two boys, Ezekiel (10) and Elijah (8); their one-eyed pug dog, Maxie; two bearded dragons, Cosmo and Bright Eyes; an assortment of fish and one really mean gecko.
Here are some photos from our March, 2011 meeting:
Amanda
Pastor Lou Snead
Attendees Listening to Amanda
"Food for Thought"
And here's a brief video clip of Amanda's presentation: