Bringing Ecology into Theological Education with Dr. Tim Van Meter

How can education better prepare future faith leaders to respond to today’s environmental challenges? In this insightful presentation, Dr. Tim Van Meter, Associate Professor of Practical Theology and the Alford Chair of Christian Education and Youth at the Methodist Theological School in Ohio, explores the gaps in ecological education and how theological institutions can equip students to become effective environmental leaders.

Drawing on his experience in theological education, Dr. Van Meter discusses why ecology has often been overlooked in religious training and offers practical approaches for integrating faith, sustainability, and environmental stewardship into seminary life and ministry. His presentation highlights the importance of preparing future clergy to address climate change, creation care, and ecological responsibility from a faith perspective.

This video was recorded at the Symposium on Ecologically Informed Theological Education in Washington, D.C., held in March 2017. The symposium brought together more than 70 seminary presidents, deans, and faculty members to explore how faith and ecology can become an integral part of theological education.

The event was co-organized by the Interfaith Center for Sustainable Development, the Washington Theological Consortium, the Green Seminary Initiative (GSI), and the Methodist Theological School in Ohio (MTSO), and hosted by The Catholic University of America’s School of Theology and Religious Studies. The symposium formed part of the Seminary Environmental Leadership Initiative, helping prepare future religious leaders to engage with the global ecological crisis through education and ministry.

If you are interested in watching more videos on effective environmental education, check out our video on ecologically informed theological education with Dr. Laurel Kearns!