Grail Women Restoring the Earth

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Environmental Perspectives and Concerns

Ecology and the future of the earth are topics high on the agenda of many groups in the Grail at this present time. One aspect of this interest is the earth itself, the interconnectedness of all forms of life on the planet and the earth as part of the entire cosmos. We are seeing more and more how profit and the notion of human advancement have dictated the ways in which people have exploited the earth's resources and have caused immense destruction of the environment. What is needed is a new world-view of creation and a "new story" to express it.

The universe, and the place of humanity within it, is also becoming an important dimension of our spirituality. Reflection on Creation Theology and the various stories of the origins of the earth nourish and deepen our perception of our own meaning within the "Great whole" and our responsibility for sustaining life on the planet.

This concern is also manifested in the development of a life-style directed towards care of the earth. Members and groups in many countries are adapting environment-friendly practices in their everyday consumption of food, energy, cleaning materials and the like. Where they are involved in agricultural projects with local people or in Grail Centres which grow food for their own use, members are employing organic methods of maintaining the fertility of the soil and pest control. The efforts of others are directed to experimentation with alternative forms of energy and of technology appropriate to the needs and possibilities in the area, or are engaged in scientific research to counteract deforestation. Conservation of the environment has become part of the content of courses and projects with women around the world.

Another important area of involvement, often carried out in collaboration with wider groups and coalitions, is lobbying for "justice to the earth"; lobbying for sound ecological policies and practices by governments and industry, which will ensure the sustainability of natural resources and a healthy, pollution-free gnvironment for people living in the cities and workers in industry.

So telling the "new story" is gaining momentum. Our love and care for creation is an integral part of that total vision of the transformation of human structures, our desires for the peace and well being of all women and men and our search for an ever deeper experience of the Creator which urges us on as Grail