Who knew you could connect scripture, water quality, teens, climate science and problem solving strategies?
Creation care with Connect-the-Drops: Faith, Science & Youth Leadership™ is FUN! By understanding the common ground on which faith, science, and the Lutheran traditions stand- kids work to make this world a more trustworthy place. Laughing, teamwork, vocation, Bible studies, ecology, and climate science all wade together in the subject of water. There’s even a youth-driven creation care service project component.
Since 2015, this programming has demonstrated adaptability in a variety of youth ministry situations: small & large churches, urban, suburban, rural, high school youth group, confirmation small groups, intergenerational teams.
How does it work?
The Minneapolis Area Synod ELCA’s EcoFaith Network has partnered with Growing Green Hearts, Hennepin County to bring this programming to participating congregations and communities they serve. By the time churches are celebrating EcoReformation 2017, there will be at least 20+ Minnesota churches participating in this initiative.
“You’re not just learning here- you are leading.”
Rather than a curriculum, Connect-the-Drops: Faith, Science & Youth Leadership™ is an experience. It blends theology with climate science, community, and environmental stewardship in 6 steps, or drops. It works to break down the false dichotomy between faith and science while building upon youth ministry faith formation strategies. Each middle school, high school level, or intergenerational church group moves through 6 steps (called drops) in 5 months. Clergy, mentors, and youth leaders attend a training event led by Growing Green Hearts to explore the process. As part of the program, an environmental educator visits the church for environmental STEM hands-on learning then groups work water and energy assessments at your church and receive green coaching and funding on a creation care project that students decide upon. Youth from around the Minneapolis Area Synod ELCA gather two times a year for a Collaborate & Celebrate green event in which youth leadership stories party with sustainability experts, creation care music, cultural experiences, and a meal.
When can I try it?
Sign up is happening now! Contact GGH here or the EcoFaith Network here. Cohort groups run each fall and spring with about 5 to 7 churches in each cohort group.
