Businesses, we buy from them, work for them, invest in them, sell to them. For decades, most businesses have been focused on only one thing, profit. That is changing. More and more, customers, employees and now investors and clients are asking businesses to make things happen for the good of others, and not just make money for themselves. As followers of Jesus, we can help steer them in ways of justice, good stewardship, and even grace. This is not the time for a silent Church! This course will help participants learn how we can influence businesses towards creation stewardship, care for others, and justice for all.

In “The Way” of Christ, how we go about fostering relationships, examining our intentions, and seeking God’s wisdom should resemble the goal that we strive towards. There are no short cuts, silver bullets or pre-packaged programs to save the day. Real community is formed by real relationships. Faith communities are just the same, but they are additionally flavoured by the expectation that God is actually a member of the community! Such a living faith seeks the promises of God in the everyday affairs and looks for their fruit. How do we lead others into this ancient way?

People are also often confused about just what the actual foundations of our faith are. What does God want to show us and how do we conform to his “plan”? If we are to share in God’s mission for the world, then we need to have a firm idea of “the-story-so-far” and do our best to write ourselves into it—and help others to do the same!

How do we connect God’s mission, and therefore the mission of the church, with the culture in which we live and speak in ways that help people make sense of their lives and their purpose through the lens of the Gospel? How can our words as preachers help others follow Jesus’ Way of Love more closely? How can we equip people to share their transformed lives in a way that opens a generous door into faith and Christian community?

The science is clear. We are living in a warming world due to fossil fuel emissions. The world’s most vulnerable are already suffering and it jeopardizes the well-being of future generations. This course will explore what it means to follow Jesus and live lives of justice within the context of climate breakdown.