What can we learn from the theoretical insights as well as the embodied practices of these communities?

In this paper, you will analyze how faith-based initiatives actively embody our course theme, “Religion and the Natural World.” How do two concrete, faith-based initiatives creatively engage with their religious traditions in order to live more just and sustainable lives? What can we learn from the theoretical insights as well as the embodied practices of these communities?
In the first 4 pages of this paper, you will identify and analyze two concrete examples of faith-based responses to the ecological crisis. These two examples must emerge from two distinct faith traditions. For instance, you might highlight Hazon and Agape Community, or the Chipko Movement and Freedom Farm, or Good Tree Farm and the Happy Farm (these are just a few of the many possible combinations). In conversation with at least four separate texts from the course (and by employing at least four compelling quotes from these texts), you will analyze the ways in which these communities reflect on the place and role of human beings in relation to the wider earth community and in relation to the divine. In each instance, how does their engagement with religious texts, beliefs, traditions and/or practices inspire their work for sustainability and social justice? Lastly, in the final page of this paper, you will revisit and reflect upon your ecological autobiography. How do the insights and practices of these two communities inspire you to work for sustainability and social justice?
The essay must be submitted to me (jxrobinson@iona.edu) by 11:59 p.m. on 12/17. If you have not completed the essay by this time, you must send me the draft of the essay that you have completed. (Iona requires all professors to submit final course grades less than a week after the 12/17 due date). Please email your paper to me as a Word document. Please double space your paper and use 12 pt. Times New Roman font. Please use 1 inch margins (left, right, top, and bottom). Please cite the source of your quote by including the author’s last night and the page number. Ex: Rasmussen asserts that “each human being is a little universe, a microcosm of the macrocosm” (Rasmussen 15).
In addition to emailing me your paper, please be certain to follow Iona’s instructions regarding how to submit a Core Signature Assignment to the Core Committee at Iona. Please review the Instructions for CSA Uploads, which are included on Blackboard as a distinct document.

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