Saint Francis of Assisi Ministry

Climate Change

  • Climate Action Now!

    Most people think that contacting their representatives regarding climate change and pending legislation is too hard. A while back, I wrote about a web page I created to make it easier at how-to-contact-your-leaders. While this is still a handy resource… Continue reading

  • Experiencing an Ecological Conversion

    In Laudato Si, Pope Francis, invites to experience an ecological conversion: We need to experience a conversion, or change of heart…it entails gratitude and gratuitousness, a recognition that the world is God’s loving gift, and that we are called quietly… Continue reading

  • Celebrate Earth Day with these Events

    Earth Day is less than three weeks away, falling this year on Friday, April 22nd. Looking for a way to celebrate? I am reminded of what Saint Francis was reported to have said: “Preach the Gospel at all times. Use… Continue reading

  • Eco-Summit on the Ridge

    For several months now, I have been helping to plan an in-person community summit on Climate Change in Seattle. If you are local to the Seattle area, I hope you can join us on April 23rd at the Greenwood Senior… Continue reading

  • The solutions are at hand today

    Last week, I wrote about guilt and action. I suggested that guilt could be a motivator for action and that the sage advice to avoid all guilt might be wrong if it avoided taking responsibility and having empathy.  But feeling… Continue reading

  • No guilt, no action

    I think it’s an understatement to say that modern society is constantly telling us to stop feeling guilty. It’s not your fault. Turn off the outside world. Take care of yourself.  But perhaps this advice is not always right. A… Continue reading

  • Earth Day 2022 Cleanup Announced

    The Saint Francis of Assisi group is hosting our second annual Earth Day Cleanup on Sunday, April 23 in the Greenwood neighborhood of Seattle! Looking for an opportunity to take action to celebrate Earth Day? Join us as we head… Continue reading

  • The True Cost of War

    War is terrible. I am heartbroken at Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. And also, of course, for the victims of war and violence in many other countries, including Syria, Ethiopia, Cameroon, Yemen, and Myanmar. Wars kill and injure people. It also… Continue reading

  • Liberty vs. Responsibility

    When I started my first job out of graduate school, I remember thinking that I had finally arrived at adulthood. I had a great job, a healthy salary, and no more classes. I recall at the time, realizing that I… Continue reading

  • Making that Low-Carbon Resolution Stick

    During January, I shared with you my four low carbon footprint resolution ideas: eat more plants, use less energy, buy less stuff, and talk and advocate for change. I often think about this column when I run. And this past… Continue reading