This project investigates the complex and often paradoxical intersections of the United States National Park System and its preservation model (with particular focus on the National Parks in the Southwest), the displacement of indigenous peoples from these same park lands, current ecological and conservation concerns and how Christianity in North America has contributed significantly to these institutional, social and ecological developments, often with devastating consequences. A thoughtful and honest investigation of these dynamics can help church leaders to articulate a relevant, ethical and theologically sound understanding of relational stewardship for all creation and encourage faith communities to engage in re-envisioning and re-forming congregational, spiritual, ecological and healing practices that affirm just relationships with God, “God’s country” and all God’s people.

This project will include ample time for reading, writing and reflection; a five-week exploration of the National Parks and Forests; interviews with park service personnel, Native community leaders, ecological scholars and church leaders; and a one-week service trip with church youth to the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Reservation in South Dakota. During this study I will maintain a weekly travel and resource blog which will then be shaped and made available for local, regional and national church study with additional liturgical resources and educational links.