Eco-Justice Ministries is delighted to host one of our close friends and colleagues for a special workshop on the afternoon of Monday, January 19 -- the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday. We hope you'll join us for an exciting and informative program by a national leader in the faith-based environmental movement.

Rev. Katherine Jesch is the Director of Environmental Ministry for the Unitarian Universalist Ministry for Earth -- the organization that has developed and managed the highly respected "Green Sanctuary" program for UU churches. We often refer to the Green Sanctuary certification as the "gold standard" for environmentally focused churches. For several years, Katherine has been the staff person responsible for overseeing this certification process. She has wonderful experience and insights about what really works in "greening" churches -- in practical programs, religious perspectives, and in what motivates people toward ongoing commitments.

Katherine is coming to Denver to work with First Unitarian Church, and has graciously agreed to schedule an additional meeting with our ecumenical partners while she is in town. This is a very special opportunity for us to draw on the wisdom and experience of Katherine and the UU Green Sanctuary program.

Here is how Katherine described her theme for the afternoon:

The task of greening our congregations invites us to do more than change light bulbs and set out recycling bins. Join this gathering to explore possibilities for transforming our faith communities into models of sustainability and creation care. See how congregation-based programs can help us create a healthy and satisfying future for all beings in creation.

We're hoping that the Monday afternoon time will be convenient for people who are coming to downtown Denver for the annual "Marade" on Martin Luther King Day. Capitol Heights Presbyterian Church is conveniently located six blocks due south of the ML King statue in City Park that is the starting point for the Marade, and near where most people will be parking. The Marade is scheduled to end before 1 PM. You're welcome to bring a lunch, and we'll provide hot drinks.

And, of course, you're welcome to come even if you are not taking part in the Marade.

For directions to the church, see http://chpc.denverpresbytery.org/Directions.htm

This event is free -- but donations will certainly be accepted! It will help our planning if you can let us know that you're coming -- 303-715-3873 or ministry@eco-justice.org.

Please share this invitation with others in your congregation or community who might be interested.