Earthkeeping and Character

October 7, 2019
Bouma-Prediger (For the Beauty of the Earth), a professor of theology at Hope College, describes the approach he believes Christians should take to environmental stewardship in this succinct yet deep volume. He argues that an ethics of ecology should be grounded in building a virtuous character and, as such, calls on Christians to be “aching visionaries” who mourn a flawed present and dream of a glorious future, and presents an “ethics in our time and place” that encourages a deeper connection to the environment. He ties each trait—wonder, humility, self-control, wisdom, justice, love, courage, and hope—to biblical citations as well as examples from figures such as Rachel Carson, C.S. Lewis, and John Muir. He also blends in his own experiences teaching students, both within the classroom and on outdoor expeditions. Though lay readers may find the academic approach and jargon overbearing, Bouma-Prediger’s analysis is fresh, and his passion and sincerity manage to shine through the dense prose. For readers seeking a model to connect Christian and environmental movements, or an extra call to care for the Earth, this lucid, hopeful work will be worth the effort.