Earth Ministry Update - from Executive Director, LeeAnne Beres

Earth Ministry/Washington Interfaith Power & Light is a community that comes together around shared values that compel us to protect and improve the health of the planet and our neighbors. Putting our faith into action is not a task we take lightly, but a deep conviction – and one I’ve seen you live out in new ways over the last few months. Your resilience and dedication give me hope, and our work together is making a difference. 

In this time of adaptation, Earth Ministry has been centering environmental justice in our organizing efforts. We are following the lead of community of color-led organizations as we advocate for equitable pandemic recovery and investing in frontline communities. At the same time, Earth Ministry is doing our own work to listen, learn, and act for justice.

The Earth Ministry board recently approved a new 2020-2025 strategic plan that builds on these values and sets out an exciting and ambitious vision for the future. 

We recognize that the faith-based movement is strongest when all people contribute their unique strengths and experiences. That’s one reason why Earth Ministry/WAIPL’s new strategic plan commits us to formally transition to a multifaith organization that encompasses diverse religious identities in programs, outreach, board and staff leadership, and partnerships. As we shared earlier this week, we have taken a first step of re-branding with a more inclusive logo.

Earth Ministry also will build upon our efforts to educate, support, and strategically mobilize the faith community to protect the health of our communities and the environment. We will continue to:

• Connect with people of all faiths through outreach and education that inspires action 
• Assist houses of worship in taking on efforts that protect both people and the planet
• Train and organize people of faith to engage in advocacy for environmental justice
• Foster systemic change through adoption of strong environmental policies

Our community is built on faith and hope, with a clear vision of who we want to be. We are excited to share our 5-year strategic plan with you and invite you to join us on this journey.