oa New Heaven, New Earth: Christian Theology and Ecological Worldview

For over two decades, the head of the Orthodox Church, His All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, has been one of the most outspoken religious leaders on the ecological crisis and its moral dimension. In alignment with this view, I explore the key themes of the Orthodox spiritual perspective of environmental awareness and action as embodied within the three fundamental principles of icons (religious images), liturgy (religious ritual) and ascesis (religious renunciation). I provide three models of caring for the earth that form the core Biblical message to care for the vulnerable in creation; the ascetic practices of renunciation, responsibility and repentance; and the sacramental concept of mystical communion with God through nature. I conclude the paper by emphasizing the critical importance of frugality and simplicity for all.