Record-setting heatwaves, drought, wildfires, extreme weather, and unprecedented disasters. With 2026 on pace to be Earth’s hottest year on record, it’s time to talk again about what’s happening and what we can do about it.
Three Sunday mornings this fall, the Climate Justice and Adult Spirituality groups host a conversation series about what Mother Earth is telling us. Each session meets from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. in Room 301 and on Zoom.
The Promise of Biomimicry
September 27, 9:00–10:00 a.m. — Room 301 and via Zoom
Nahal Entezam Nia, an architect and visual artist, will introduce biomimicry — the practice of learning from how nature solves problems — and explore its potential far beyond architecture and technology. From natural cooling systems and resource-sharing networks to the diversity and resilience of ecosystems, nature offers strategies for adapting, cooperating, and thriving with limited resources.
The discussion will explore how these principles can inspire approaches to architecture, urban design, medicine, food systems, community organizing, art, and everyday life. We will consider examples of nature-inspired solutions.
What’s Goin’ On?
October 4, 9:00–10:00 a.m. — Room 301 and via Zoom
Peter Jabin will lead an open-ended conversation about the current moment in our climate emergency, the forces behind it, its relationship to the metacrisis, how folks are feeling, and what we can do. The discussion will be prompted by video clips from climate scientist and climate conversation advocate Katharine Hayhoe, and critic of global capitalism Naomi Klein.
Accelerating the Transition to Clean Energy: The Last Best Chance to Cool the Earth
October 11, 9:00–10:00 a.m. — Room 301 and via Zoom
Tom Carlson will lead a discussion about accelerating the transition from fossil fuels to clean energy around the world, along with challenges to that transition in the Puget Sound region. The discussion will be prompted by a TED Talk by renowned climate journalist and activist Bill McKibben, along with a couple of short readings.