"Wide Awake", Advent 1 (Matt. 24:36-44)

Today, my guest is Rev. Dr. Lisa Graumlich.    Rev. Dr. Lisa Graumlich stands at the crossroads of science and spirit in humanity's most critical hour. She champions the urgent need for robust and transparent science in our climate crisis. As a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) and the Ecological Society of America (ESA), and Past President of the American Geophysical Union, she wields decades of climate research to understand our changing planet.   Ordained as an Episcopal deacon in 2004 and serving at St. Andrews Episcopal Church in Tucson, Arizona, Graumlich bridges the worlds of rigorous science and sacred calling. She is building bridges between faith and reason communities as we forge an equitable, sustainable Earth where all people thrive.   Her career dedication to understanding global climate change now serves a sacred mission: awakening both scientific and spiritual communities to our shared responsibility for creation's future."       Discussion questions 1. The love of creation is central to conservation. How can formal and informal learning be structured so that it invites people to learn about and engage with creation in ways that strengthen promote empathy and bonds of care between human beings and the more-than-human creation? 2. In reference to the passage Matthew 24:36 – 44, the speakers encourage attitudes of watchfulness, awareness of the interconnectedness of creation and preparedness as ways of living in these ecologically challenged times. In your context, how do you stay watchful and in what ways can you support collective preparedness? 3. Putting on the armor of light is an act of resistance against overwhelming despair and hopelessness. What thoughts come up for you in regards to creation, considering the level of ecological crisis predicted if people don’t change, as you reflect on how our biblical ancestors ‘put on the armor of light’ in their darkest times? 4. The concept of non-linear (faith based) values stood out as a response to the overwhelming non-linearity of the current ecological crisis. How does the understanding of theologians and faith leaders as pivotal to the healing of the earth affect your confidence as a person of faith, and what are the ways faith leaders need to change in order to partner with science and lead in this crucial moment?