The Episcopal Ecological Network (EpEN)

The Earth Charter

Proposed Resolution for the 76th General Convention of the Episcopal Church, USA, July 2009

Resolution C044: The Earth Charter

Resolved, the House of ___________ concurring, That the 76th General Convention of The Episcopal Church endorse the Earth Charter and recommend action steps for dioceses, parishes and individuals to implement its principles, locally, nationally and internationally.

Proposer: Diocese of Newark

EXPLANATION

The Earth Charter is a declaration of fundamental ethical principles for building a just, sustainable and peaceful global society in the 21st century (see www.earthcharter.org). It results from the most inclusive and participatory worldwide process ever associated with the drafting of an international declaration. Literally thousands people and hundreds of organizations, including many religious leaders, participated in the decade long process. The Earth Charter seeks to inspire in all people a new sense of global interdependence and shared responsibility for the well being of the whole human family, the greater community of life and future generations. It is a blueprint for local and global ministry; it is a vision of hope and a call to action.

Now is a critical moment in the history of God's creation, a time when we must choose our future and that of the magnificent diversity of cultures and life forms on our planet, Earth. Our common destiny calls us to seek a new beginning, a fundamental change of heart and mind, a clear recognition of global interdependence and universal responsibility. We must take actions - large and small - that demonstrate a new reverence for life, a firm resolve to achieve sustainability and a quickening of the struggle for justice and peace.

That the 76th General Convention direct the Office of Government Relations to advocate for endorsement of the "United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples" by the U.S. administration.

SUPPORTING DOCUMENT:

The Earth Charter.

Note: This resolution is identical to C064.

The EpEN is a national network of active lay and clergy persons within the Episcopal Church, USA, who share a common concern for the environment and a common belief in the presence of God in all Creation and who work to make these concerns and beliefs known throughout all Provinces and Dioceses within the church.  Members come from around the Episcopal Church USA.  The activities of the EpEN are focused on the areas of Reflection, Education, and Action. 

If you would like to contact any of these groups or to find out more about the EpEN, please click on the links on the left.