WI Campaign - Dave Steffenson  608-837-3108
Green Bay Event - Joe Bachman  920-722-1018

The first of seven regional Wisconsin workshops on religious faith and global warming will be held in Green Bay on Saturday, Feb. 17, 2001, at the Ecumenical Center, University of Wisconsin—Green Bay.  The religious keynoter will be Bishop Robert Morneau, Green Bay Catholic Diocese, widely known for his inspirational writings, poetry, and speaking.  He will address why climate change is a religious issue.

The day will begin with a panel presentation on the reality and threats of rapid climate change by four scientists -- Dr. James Hodgson, St. Norbert College biologist; Dr. John Lenters, UW-Madison Center for Climatic Research; Eric Mosher, WI Dept. of Natural Resources climate specialist; and Dr. Kevin Quinn, St. Norbert College environmental economist.

The afternoon sessions led by several specialists will deal with practical aspects of what congregations and individuals can do to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, slow global warming, increase energy efficiency, and save money.  In addition, resources for local parish educational programs will be provided as well as training for addressing global warming political and policy issues through the media and governmental channels.

Information or registration materials for this training event may be secured from Joe Bachman, Co-Chair, 629 Wheeler St., Neenah WI 54956.  Cost for the workshop is $10 which includes lunch.  Congregations are urged to send teams of pastors and lay persons.
 
A second workshop for the WI southwest region will be held as a two-day conference on Earth Day weekend, April 21 and 22, 2001, at Edgewood College, Madison, WI.  Sessions will be held in the afternoon on both days with a possible concert on Saturday night.  There will be a religious keynoter, scientific speakers, strong student and youth involvement both days, plus resource sessions and displays on alternate technologies, farming, economics, policy, politics and training on what local congregations can do.  Speakers will be announced soon.
 
Planning is also underway for similar events in the Milwaukee and LaCrosse  regions, and other workshops are projected for Eau Claire, Wausau-Stevens Point, and Ashland before next summer.  In addition, campus ministries of several faith orientations, are planning an evening faith-based program on global warming for Friday, Feb. 23, on the UW-Madison Campus. This program will be open to the general public.

The Interfaith Climate Change Campaign of Wisconsin (IMPACT) also can provide programs to local congregations and religious groups on faith responses to global warming as well as resources for improving facility energy efficiency and adopting sustainable practices.

To receive registration materials for any events other than Green Bay or for more information, contact the State Coordinator, The Rev. Dave Steffenson, c/o The Wisconsin Council of Churches, 750 Windsor St., Sun Prairie, WI 53590.