Certificate in Environmental Stewardship and Sustainability

The relationship between humanity and the rest of God’s creation is a topic often neglected in the contemporary church. A recent sociological survey (Clements et al., 2014) indicated that, as of 2010, Christians in America are less likely on average to engage in lifestyles or activities that resemble a care for creation than non­-Christians. Humanity was made to reflect God in action, in wise and loving stewardship, in delight, and in great interest for the good of what He made. Students are emerging from the academy into a culture that is increasingly separated from the natural world, and divided philosophically as to its value. As the rest of the creation permeates our daily lives, this certificate program serves to affirm the preparation of student participants for:

• Living in the church as sources of interest and wisdom in stewarding creation well
• Serving as leaders in the community with interest/practical knowledge concerning individual and systemic sustainability solutions
• Healing broken relationships between the church and other stakeholders over environmental concerns.

Covenant is uniquely qualified to offer certificates that integrate faith and disciplinary practice, especially in a liberal arts framework. This certificate leverages the breadth of the liberal arts to address a key issue facing our culture and the church. Coursework requires students to explore disciplinary breadth, encouraging consideration for and competence in the multi­dimensionality of environmental issues. Experiential components require students to seek out opportunities to apply their growing knowledge practically on campus, and in their communities, and these exercises will contribute to their growing professional credentials.

This certificate will affirm a student’s preparation to be leaders in the church and community in environmental stewardship. In addition to meeting minimum standards in course requirements, students will discuss and receive evaluations on their experiential components in an interdisciplinary seminar held each spring (a readings/discussion­-based course with contributions from listed faculty). Contact the program coordinator: Dr. Joelle Laing.