ECOLOGY AND NATIVE SPIRITUALITY

5.) TEACHING/DOCTRINE ANIMISM: Holds that all things, human and non-human have spirits or souls, and that the person or animal lives on after death through the presence of that spirit. Many adherents believe that everything in the world is alive, and that all living things are interconnected.

DEATH AND THE AFTERLIFE Many aboriginal legends recount stories of reincarnation, or rebirth. Aboriginals vary in their beliefs about what happens to the souls of the dead- some believe they are reborn into a human; or even man-made objects like fishing nets or spears; or are transmitted to the stars of the Milky Way.

ECOLOGY AND NATIVE SPIRITUALITY Moral Aspects of Ecology 1. indiscriminate use of advances in science and technology 2. pollution resulting from the dominance of economic interests over other values 3. lack of ecological balance due to imbalance among rich and poor in use of resources 4. ecological damage caused by war 5. connection between the environment and human development

ECOLOGY AND NATIVE SPIRITUALITY Ecology and Creation Catholics are called to be stewards of creation God becomes known during meditation through nature Human life shows a common ancestry with plants and animals Communion with nature -when we care for creation; we care for ourselves

ECOLOGY AND NATIVE SPIRITUALITY 4 RESPONSES 1.) Ecology (environmental study) A.) Basic rights (the environment should have rights) B.)Look at the world through an anthropocentric view C.) Respect the rights of natives

ECOLOGY AND NATIVE SPIRITUALITY 2. Relationship with nature A.) Soil/water/plants today equals tomorrow's flesh B.)Artificially controlled rooms- less connection with nature

ECOLOGY AND NATIVE SPIRITUALITY 3.) Respect for Animals A.) Respect for animals = respect for people (often the victimization of animals will lead to the victimization of people) B.) Exploitive tendency-money is worth the sacrifice of nature C.) Respect not domination-use before abuse

ECOLOGY AND NATIVE SPIRITUALITY 4.) Concerns for cultural change A.) Land: organic farming B.) Air quality-(asthma in North America is increasing) C.) Water: oil spills, ice caps retreat-water reserves will be lost forever. D.) Rising C02 levels-means increase in temperature- melting the poles-flooding and world disasters (arid land; South Africa, New Orleans)

David Suzuki's Nature Challenge 1. Reduce home energy by 10% 2. Choose an energy-efficient home and appliances 3. Don't use pesticides 4. Eat meat-free meals one day a week 5. Buy locally grown and produced food 6. Choose a fuel efficient vehicle 7. Walk, bike, carpool or take transit 8. Chose a home close to work or school 9. Support car-free alternatives 10. Learn more and share with family and friends