Newport church hosts Earth Summit

Newport’s Atonement Lutheran Church will play host to the 12th annual Oregon Interfaith Earth Summit this Sunday, March 16.

Atonement will join 17 other community hubs for this statewide gathering, which will focus on the theme of “climate safety and health.” Participants will learn about what is happening with Oregon’s climate and hear the responses of faith leaders, youth leaders, scientists and state officials. Those attending will be able to connect with community organizations and local agencies as they explore how to protect themselves and their neighbors from fires, smoke, extreme weather and other effects.

The event will begin with remarks from faith and youth leaders at a statewide Zoom plenary session. Practical workshops will follow, both in person and on Zoom. Prominent authors of the Oregon Climate Assessment will make presentations, Dr. Erica Fleischman, director of Oregon Climate Change Research Institute and Dr. Larry O’Neill, director of the Oregon Climate Service. Jonna Papaefthimiou, state resilience officer and advisor to the governor, will discuss the state of Oregon’s climate resilience.

A representative from the Yakona Nature Preserve and Learning Center in Newport will be available to discuss the work of the preserve in fostering climate resilience, education and sustainability in this permanent conservation location on the ancestral home of the Yaqo’n people.

The summit, presented in partnership with Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon and Oregon Interfaith Power & Light, will run from 1 to 4 pm at Atonement Lutheran Church, located at 2315 N Hwy. 101 in Newport. Registration is by donation and is encouraged in advance. For more information, go to emoregon.org/events.