Get Involved: Land and Wilderness

Here's What You Can Do: Get Involved! Make the Difference! Grand Canyon

Lands, wilderness, and open spaces have always been central to the Judeo-Christian tradition, playing a vital role in the spiritual journeys of Biblical peoples from Moses to Jesus Christ. Lands are also an essential part of God's creation. Through them, God nourishes life; provides the foundation of terrestrial ecosystems and human communities; supplies blessings of sustenance like soil, water, timber and minerals; and offers natural space for prayer and spiritual renewal. As a nation, we recognize and celebrate these blessings in the 623 million acres of public lands nationwide.

Links and Resources

Click here for the scriptural and theological inspiration for faith-based wilderness advocacy.
Each year the National Park Service sets up “free park days” when entrance fees to all national parks are waived.
National Public Lands Day -Join an event taking place near your church or worship center.
Try exploring public land! In addition to well-known public lands like Yellowstone National Park and the Grand Canyon, there are thousands of acres that are just as spectacular. Go see what may be in your own back-yard visit :The Bureau of Land Management, The Bureau of Reclamation, The U.S. Forest Service or The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Most of the damaged done to the wilderness has occurred with the last 50 years. Clayton Daughenbaugh has an article that bears reading, Wilderness: God’s Garden and the Threats to Nature.
At the most basic level, Wilderness is land that has not been previously developed or inhabited by humans. The Wilderness Act of 1964 sets forth the legal definition of wilderness, read more about it as the link above!
Click here for the book "Renewal in the Wilderness" by John Lionberger, founder of the organization of the same name, exploring in depth the connection of spirituality and wilderness experiences.

For More Information Contact:

Eco-Justice Program Office National Council of Churches
110 Maryland Ave., NE
Suite 108
Washington, DC 20002
(202) 544-2350
info@nccecojustice.org