Sacred Stories: Empowering Christian Leaders for Climate Justice

At the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, where the tides rise and fall with the rhythms of creation, Christian leaders gather each year for a unique retreat—one that weaves together faith, science, and justice. Hosted at the Duke Marine Lab in Beaufort, North Carolina, the Pastoral Care for Climate Retreat equips ministry leaders with the tools, language, and spiritual grounding to guide their congregations in an era of climate crisis.
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For three years, Creation Justice Ministries has brought together pastors, theologians, and climate scientists to explore a fundamental question: How can the Church lead faithfully in response to the ecological challenges of our time? The answers emerge in community, through scripture and story, science and spiritual reflection, and the unmistakable presence of hope.​

Equipped to Lead with Hope
Many participants arrive with a deep concern for creation but uncertainty about how to lead on such a complex issue. Some serve congregations where environmental justice is rarely addressed—or even opposed. They leave emboldened, better equipped to preach, teach, and act.

Kathy Ellis, one retreat participant, described the experience as “life-changing.” Engaging with climate scientists deepened her understanding and revealed a surprising reciprocity—the scientists, too, were moved by the faith leaders’ wisdom. “That inspires me to include un-churched populations whenever possible,” she reflected.

The retreat bridges the divide between theology and science. Faculty from Duke Divinity School and the Nicholas School of the Environment offer insights on the moral and scientific urgency of climate change. Through storytelling, Bible study, and leadership exercises, pastors discover practical ways to integrate creation care into their ministries—whether through sermons, pastoral counseling, or community-based initiatives.

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​The Impact
The impact is clear. Participants report increased confidence and frequency in preaching about climate justice, launching new efforts in advocacy, education, and disaster preparedness.

Most importantly, these retreats affirm that Christian leadership in a climate-changed world is not just about knowledge—it is about courage, connection, and calling. As one pastor put it, “You can’t preach the same sermon to every congregation. You have to know where your people stand and where their hope is rooted.”


Because the Church must not only care for creation—it must lead.


This story is just one example of how Creation Justice Ministries is equipping leaders to respond faithfully to the climate crisis. For a first look at more highlights from the past year—including advocacy wins, congregational initiatives, and sacred storytelling--check out this sneak peek of our upcoming Impact Report.

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