This is a time of beginnings. Last weekend, from Boston to Berkeley, thousands of people gathered for Sun Day—a nationwide celebration of clean energy, lifting up the promise of a future powered by the good gifts of creation. And this week, many in our network are celebrating Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year—a reminder that renewal is always possible, no matter what other challenges we face.

I found myself in the historic pews of Old South Church in Boston, to hear Rev. Dr. Jim Antal—a public theologian and longtime climate activist—give the Sun Day morning’s address. He wove together our collective grief over the gathering opposition to clean energy, but wouldn’t let us linger overlong in lament. I was moved as he pointed us toward hope, and finally, towards resolve: 

“I pray that in the weeks and the months ahead, each of us will welcome the opportunity our generation has been given to determine what life will be like, not only for our children, but for dozens of generations to come. The science is clear. We have only a few years left to move from an extractive to a regenerative economy and thereby hold off the most devastating consequences of climate change. Thanks be to God, we already have all the technology we need to make this transition and now all we need is resolve.”

So—what comes after Sun Day? What begins with this new season, this new year? The opportunity is before us, to take a “giant leap into the light of the sun.” What role will you play? And will we have the resolve?

Together, we have the chance to meet this moment. Now is the time: our Executive Committee and I are adopting a new long-term strategic plan that will help our statewide network of 200+ houses of worship strengthen our ties with one another; reach new people and rising generations with the message of hope for creation; launch new events at the intersection of environment and spirituality; and continue to provide the technical expertise to help houses of worship steward their buildings and resources sustainably. We are stepping into a new vision for our work together—one that already includes your congregation, your gifts, your witness.

Will you renew your resolve with us? As Jim says, all we need is resolve. And I would add: all we need is you. The prayers you offer, the choices you make, the generosity you share, and the witness you bring—these are what turn hope into reality. We can do far more together than any of us could do alone.

Sun Day isn’t over. A new year and a new season of creation has begun. At the bottom of this email, you’ll find more ways to carry its power forward.

What we do now will shine far beyond our lifetimes, leaving a legacy of faith, justice, and care for all creation.

With hope and resolve,