Across Illinois, people of faith are responding to the climate crisis, connecting with one another and taking action through a unique interfaith organization called Faith in Place. Faith in Place empowers people, from many diverse religious traditions, to become champions of environmental justice and build healthier communities.

This month there are two opportunities to find out how people from various religious traditions work together to practice their faith through Earth care. The first is The Green Team Summit.

On Sept. 14, hundreds of people from neighborhoods across Chicago and cities throughout Illinois convene at the Field Museum of Chicago for an action-packed day of connecting and networking about environmental issues. The event is free, and includes an optional behind the scenes tour of the Museum, as well as many workshops on Energy and Climate, Water Preservation, Sustainable Food and Land Use, Youth Programming, and Advocacy.

According to Statewide Outreach Director Veronica Kyle, “Whether your house of worship is just starting to think about sustainability or has a long history of going green, you are invited to this event that will give you the tools, resources and inspiration needed to spark meaningful change in your community.” Information and registration is found at www.faithinplace.org/get-involved/green-team-summit.

For involvement closer to home, head to the Chillicothe Public Library on Sept. 28 and take part in the Renewable Energy Fair. Faith in Place, Sierra Club and Citizens Utility Board are teaming up to moderate a “Listen. Lead. Share.” session from 2:45 to 4 p.m.

Over 70 of these community conversations on Illinois’ clean energy future have taken place during the last year, offering insight into the policies that will grow job opportunities, lower energy costs and build a healthier future. Organizers will listen and record participants’ priorities and concerns via a survey as part of the afternoon’s activities. They will convey results to policymakers shaping clean energy jobs legislation for Illinois. To find out more, see https://www.faithinplace.org/events/ci-listenleadshare-chillicothe.

Cindy Shepherd is Central Illinois Outreach Director with Faith in Place.