Magazine
Sojourners Magazine: May 2013
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IN CASE YOU haven’t noticed, the movement to reverse climate change is not only growing—it’s also getting serious. Our coverage includes Rose Marie Berger’s cover story about how and why people of faith are stepping up to the plate; a graphic look at how climate change connects to other issues in ways that might surprise you; and an interview with Victor Mughogho of Malawi on how climate change is affecting the African church.
Stories of hope are a key part of any movement—stories that will be venerated when the now-outnumbered side becomes the winning side, as has happened with so many justice movements before. But why wait to celebrate? Check out our article, for example, about how longtime Sojourners friends Linda and Scot DeGraf have built a low-impact, high-beauty eco-house. And, in his column, Bill McKibben tells of the groundbreaking climate rally in Washington, D.C., this February. One small part of that story was written by Sojourners’ fearless interns, who handed out 1,000 stickers to share about Sojourners’ creation care campaign. (Indeed, some of you are reading this right now because, encouraged by the sticker, you texted “climate” to 877-877 in order to get a free digital copy of this issue!)
Another great way to access the healing power of story is to spring forward into a good book. We bring you a roundup of recent climate change books and movies, plus a special CultureWatch section on books you’ll be glad you checked out. Especially in these weeks after Easter, moving to Pentecost and beyond, there’s no better time to read up—and then step out in faith!
Cover Story
What will it take to push back climate change? A Spirit-driven 'power shift' might be a key.
Feature
Those who study together can also change together. Here are our recommendations for good books, videos, and online resources for stepping forward to reverse climate change.
Can getting to know people on the "other side" help tear down the walls between us? It already has.
Victor Mughogho works with local churches in southeast Africa to address the effects of climate change. But is it enough?
Villages in Senegal put an end to female genital cutting—and show the power of communities learning together to change.
Climate change leads to far more consequences than just destructive weather patterns.
Commentary
A new generation of Cuban Americans encourages broader dialogue.
The heart of our faith calls us to attack poverty, the "cruel thief of dreams."
A recent agreement between U.S. churches marks important ecumenical progress.
Columns
"Richard Twiss was willing to step out for what he believed in."
We can see in our mind's eye all the generations to come, and so we know why we fight.
"This is not merely a philosophical enterprise; it is an urgent matter that requires moral courage."
"Given the option of paying more for dirty power or paying less for clean power, what would you take?"
Culture Watch
Everyone can use guidelines—and repair manuals—for living in Christian community.
"Truth Speaks to Power: The Countercultural Nature of Scripture," Westminster John Knox
Whether you're preaching the Bible, teaching it, or reading it on your own, there are always new facets to be revealed. Here are a few books that may refresh your perspective.
"It's time to declare our opposition to this private theft of public culture."
Departments
Web Extra
While many people continue to believe there is no climate crisis, those most affected by global warming—particularly in the global South—know otherwise.
With its earth roof, straw bale walls, and cordwood construction, Woodhaven is a beauty to behold.
Rose Marie Berger writes in the May 2013 Sojourners magazine cover story, “For God So Loved the World,” that people of faith are key to reversing climate change.
Resources to help you join the battle to stop the construction of the Keystone XL pipeline