“The Sacred Earth, Sacred Action Conference proved to be a soul-stirring gathering where science and spirituality converged in profound ways” – Ross Janovec, MDiv Student, minister at The Land, UMC
“The whole day was great; what I remember most was the workshop. Oh, and the bubbles at each table! Playfulness is sacred; it is resistance, and it is just plain fun.
Also impactful for me was:
- Being part of a thoughtful, “dig deep” multi-generational and inclusive event. It was wonderful seeing students in charge and seeing the support of the seminary administration. I loved the energy, the wisdom, and the laughter in the room. God knows we need more of that in this day and age. As a retired clergyperson “of a certain age,” ? I felt very welcomed by the Iliff community.
- The workshop I attended (Earth) was – no pun intended – or maybe intended! – very grounding for me. I appreciated its participatory nature, the meditative nature of it, and the powerful and prophetic wisdom around affirming blackness. Excellent leader. This was a place where I could share my environmental/climate grief and not get strange looks from people. It was also a time of laughter and community. I’m very glad to have been part of this.
Thank you, organizers and leaders! This was a day well spent – challenging, informative, and hopeful.” ~Rev. Allyson Sawtell, Wash Park UCC, retired UCC minister, convener of the Climate Justice League of the Rocky Mountain Conference
“The SESA conference was such a pleasure for me. There were several highlights, but I was completely won over by Timothy Beal and Nadia Bolz-Weber’s conversation around finitude. Camille Dungy was also inspiring. I am planning to plant some milkweed this summer! Thank you for putting on an excellent conference. I was joining remotely, and it couldn’t have been better presented. Kudos!” ~Stacey Steers, filmmaker and gardener in Boulder
“The Sacred Earth, Sacred Action Conference proved to be a soul-stirring gathering where science and spirituality converged in profound ways. Participating in sessions like “Where Science Meets Mysticism” and “Composting Christianity” opened my eyes to new possibilities in earth stewardship. What touched me most was witnessing the beautiful tapestry of perspectives woven together – different faiths, backgrounds, and worldviews united in their commitment to creation care. As I helped during Rev. Kelly Dignan’s WATER + FIRE workshop, I saw firsthand how passionate advocacy could inspire meaningful action. This experience has sparked fresh ideas for my work with camp and retreat ministries. I’m excited to bring these boundary-pushing conversations about creation care from the conference into our local church communities, helping bridge the gap between traditional ministry and environmental stewardship.” -Ross Janovec, MDiv Student, minister at The Land, UMC
“The SESA Conference brought together some fascinating voices! It was a soulful experience for me to be in the same room with the speakers and the attendees. I left feeling hopeful about what lies ahead and very aware of how the solutions for all of today’s multi-faceted issues will be solved and addressed from many different social locales in some creative and resilient ways. The experience helped me remember that we are all in this together and that we have what it takes, collectively, to combat the further degradation of our world and our communities. Solidarity, mutual aid, and, when it comes down to it, direct action. Grassroots, and power to the people!” – Jesse Van Horne, MTS Student