An Introduction to Climate Change Chaplaincy

In this combined synchronous and asynchronous online intensive, students will learn about the mental, emotional, and spiritual impacts of climate change; develop an understanding of climate emotions, particularly climate grief and anxiety; reflect on how climate change is transforming the chaplain’s role and response; and begin thinking about how to provide culturally competent climate pastoral care that is a reflection of their identities and capacities.

Evaluations will be based on written reflections and how students help create a vibrant and caring learning community.

COURSE MEETS: January 5-9, 10am-12:00pm & 1:00-3pm PT.

REQUIRED PRE-WORK: Read pp 9-36 of Mental Health and Our Changing Climate: Impacts, Inequities, Responses.
Based on this reading, complete and submit a 1-2 page reflection paper on Populi by 5pm PT on Friday January 2, 2026.

Relates to Thresholds: 1. Life in Religious Community and Interfaith Engagement 5. Spiritual Practice and Care of the Soul and MFC: 2. Pastoral Care and Presence, 3. Spiritual Development for Self and Others, 4. Social Justice in the Public Square and 7. Leads the Faith into the Future.

Maximum enrollment: 15. Auditors excluded.

Faculty Consent Required. Registration is contingent upon faculty approval. 1. Students will self-enroll in the course to be placed on the waitlist. 2. Complete the required faculty consent questionnaire. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/FC25-26. For questions regarding Faculty Consent, please contact kmatsuura@sksm.edu.