DES MOINES, IOWA (September 15, 2026) — Iowa Faith and Climate Network announced the launch of a new Field Guide called “Belonging to the Earth: A Faith and Climate Field Guide to the Four Spaces of Climate Engagement” to help faith leaders and congregations get more involved in climate action.
The new guide offers a comprehensive framework for thinking about climate engagement by both individuals and faith communities across four distinct physical spaces — public, social, personal, and intimate. It argues that all four are necessary and none is a steppingstone to the next.
While the guide is written for clergy, congregational leaders, and environmental practitioners, it also includes resources valuable for all Iowans. With nearly 100 activity ideas, a personal and community inventory, an interfaith program calendar, and more, it can help drive faith-based conversions about and actions for the climate crisis. Also available are a shorter “field notes” version plus a reflective, simpler version that will work well for members of faith communities.
"As an organization, we have often wondered why some faith communities become climate leaders while others struggle to get started. We know lack of resources can be a barrier to get started on climate action, and developed the Field Guide to help provide the foundation needed," said Deaconess Irene DeMaris, Executive Director of Iowa Faith and Climate Network.
"When we unite our shared values with collective action, we gain the power to confront the climate crisis head-on, ensuring a legacy of health, equity, and resilience for every Iowan."
As a statewide non-profit founded in 2006, Iowa Faith and Climate Network (formerly known as Iowa Interfaith Power and Light) nurtures environmental leadership by equipping individuals and communities with resources to take climate action.
For more information about Iowa Faith and Climate Network and the new Field Guide, visit iowafaithandclimate.org/belonging.
