A free, short-term Bible study for churches about our climate crisis
This 6-week, short-term study from Iowa Interfaith Power & Light explores 6 parables of the Bible (5 parables of Jesus, and 1 from the Hebrew Scriptures.) Whether participants hear these stories anew or for the first time, they will consider their meaning for us caretakers of the earth. The study challenges us to think together about the environmental challenges of our time, asking ourselves how we are being guided by the wisdom in these parables to more meaningful, wise ways of living in harmony with others and with the planet. As your group puts the lessons of these parables into action in their lives, you’ll be forming a “community of gardeners” who seek to grow a better world.
Growing Faith is the first in a series of new resources from Iowa Interfaith Power & Light. Each will help congregations to creatively explore and discuss our climate crisis, enabling them to take meaningful individual and collective action.
About the Study
Cost
Free, though we recommend you print a copy for each participant.
Audience
Adults and older youth. Perfect for small groups, Sunday school classes, and other church settings. Anyone can lead it! The lessons are simple to prepare for and facilitate.
What’s Included?
- Reproducible Leader’s Guide (41 pgs) in PDF format, with activities, supply lists, helpful tips and more
- Reproducible Participant Guide (58 pgs) in PDF format. Ideally, participants will read the weekly content before the session.
- Publicity materials
- Evaluation Form
Time Required
- 6 lessons
- We recommend about 45 minutes per session. The lessons are adaptable to fit shorter or longer sessions.
Some Suggested Uses
- Lenten study (Lent begins March 5, 2025)
- Begin it around Earth Day (April 22, 2025)
- Summer study (with a picnic in a park or a backyard potluck!)
- Adapt it for a sermon series
- Use it with existing small groups
About the Author
Rev. Dr. Rachelle McCalla has been a pastor in the Presbyterian Church (USA) since 2003. She received her Doctor of Ministry degree in the Faith and Science program at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, and has written a variety of books and other ministry resources. She and her husband, Ray, live in Iowa and have four (mostly) adult children.