The UCC Center for Environmental Justice at Pilgrim Firs is a place where participants can come from all over the U.S. – and particularly in the northwest U.S. – and be immersed in a justice-centered response to climate change and environmental equity. Featuring a curriculum designed for diverse participants to take what they learn and return to their home locations and communicate with knowlege of five core themes of environmental justice based on biblical and ethical principles:

• 
  Gratitude
• Humility
• Justice
• Responsibility
• Community.

Using video, discussions, and hands-on learning opportunities, each session will go far beyond the traditional “greening” of our congregations and communities to promote a transformational message. Upon registration, each participate will agree to teach this new approach to environmental justice at least twice in one year and will be given all the necessary tools to communicate with “the folks in the pew.”

For all four centers, Justice and Witness Ministries is developing a unique curriculum for:

• Leaders in the local church
• Pastors and Educators
• Seminary Students
• Members of Communities of Faith beyond the UCC.

This curriculum will be Biblically based and centered on the deep issues of justice and the beloved community. It will involve the learner in study, reflection, discussion, and hands-on learning opportunities. The curriculum will also be tailored for weekly, weekend, and single-day learning opportunities.

Pilgrim Firs Camp and Conference Center, where these trainings will take place is the beautiful and appropriate location for “getting away” and then “going back” with a new spirit and a new approach to environmental justice. The food is good, the lodging is comfortable, the cost for the experience is reasonable, and the setting will inspire an openness of thought and a commitment of energy to work for the health of God’s Creation and to become an ally and a leader in your community.

Celebrate the Opening of the UCC Environmental Justice Center at Pilgrim Firs in Port Orchard, Washington

Please click on the links below for more information about each center and current programs.

• Centro Romero Center in San Ysidro, CA
• Franklinton Center at Bricks in Whitakers, NC
• Washington, DC Public Policy Center