The Austin Climate Clergy Connection meeting that took place on Monday, February 18th, was a hit! The conference was attended by 40 clergy members and lay-leaders. Among the clergy attending were Rabbi Steve Folberg (Congregation Beth Israel), Rev. Tina Carter (The Rock United Methodist Church), and Rev. Sam Riccobene (First Presbyterian Church), who all graciously helped to organize the event. Guest speakers included Austin Mayor Will Wynn and Dub Taylor of the Texas State Energy Conservation Office, who presented about environmental policy and energy conservation at the city, state, and national levels. There was also a panel discussion about Austin’s Climate Protection Plan, Austin’s Zero Waste Plan, and the
possibilities available in Texas for a energy efficiency and renewable power. Clergy and laypeople had the opportunity to discuss in small groups the steps that their congregations had taken to care for creation, from recycling programs and solar installations to carpooling programs, while also brainstorming other ways to get people of faith involved in the climate change movement.
The attendees all decided to continue to meet and include more congregational leaders from around Austin. The date for the next one has not been set, but we’ll send out an e-letter once we know when and where it will be!