Religion as Formation in Ecological Virtues

This chapter explores the role of religion in addressing the climate crisis, giving attention to formational significance that religious traditions have via beliefs, ritual and sacred texts in shaping the values and behaviours conducive to ecological sustainability. In the face of consumerist culture, formation in ecological virtues enhances humanity's interconnectedness with all forms of life. The chapter engages with the work of Kate Rigby and Larry Rasmussen on reshaping society towards an Earth-honoring morality. It also addresses the challenge of forming alliances across different groups within the eco-justice sphere, emphasizing the need for shared commitment and resilience in the face of ideological and behavioural conflicts. Through their symbols, practices, and wisdom, religious traditions can foster symbiosis among diverse groups. The article argues that religious traditions must attend more systematically to the formation of their leaders and adherents in ecological virtues, and second, that all the secular groups who are working for ecological flourishing recognize why those who practise religion are also valid partners in this shared enterprise.