Refugia and Renewal: A Book Club Journey into Climate, Faith, and Hope
Two online sessions begin August 14 at noon
How do we live faithfully in a world facing ecological crisis? Beginning Thursday, August 14 at 12:00 pm AZ time (PDT), the Grand Canyon Synod’s Spirited Book Club invites you into a rich discussion of Refugia Faith: Seeking Hidden Shelters, Ordinary Wonders, and the Healing of the Earth by Debra Rienstra. The club will meet again two weeks later on August 28, also at noon.
Grounded in Christian hope and ecological honesty, Refugia Faith draws on theology, science, nature writing, and personal reflection to ask: What kind of spiritual life can survive—and help heal—a climate-altered planet? Rienstra explores the biological concept of refugia—places of shelter during times of upheaval—and applies it to spiritual and cultural renewal.
This discussion will be facilitated by Sheri Brown, and participants are encouraged to read:
For August 14: Introduction through Chapter 3
For August 28: Chapters 4–7, plus Suggested Resources
Available in paperback, Kindle, and audiobook (narrated by Ann Richardson), the book is approachable whether you’re deeply involved in ecological advocacy or just beginning to reflect on the intersection of faith and creation care. Rienstra speaks directly to the hearts of both committed believers and those questioning how to hold onto hope amid climate grief.
Described as “a refuge for the weary, discouraged, and disheartened” by Kristin Kobes Du Mez, Refugia Faith invites us to rethink our roles as spiritual stewards, caregivers, and agents of healing.
Register now to join the conversation, and come ready to reflect, imagine, and engage.
“In this era of ecological devastation, how can Christians become people of refugia?”
—Debra Rienstra