DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia are blessed with many skilled speakers whose environmental work is rooted in their faith traditions, and with passionate environmental educators who know how to share green skills and enthusiasm with diverse religious groups. The speakers and teachers below are ready to offer guest sermons, text studies, adult forum presentations, youth group programming, and skills workshops on environmental themes in local congregations. Unless otherwise noted, honorarium for guest sermon or 1-hour workshop is $150 (which includes $50 deposit to confirm date). To schedule one of these speakers for your congregation, email program@ipldmv.org.
Table of Contents
| Name | Religious Tradition | Location Availability |
| Omar Bagnied | Muslim | Anywhere |
| Lisa Bardack | Jewish/Unitarian | Baltimore area |
| Kristin Barker | Buddhist | Metro DC |
| Dr. William Blair | Christian (Presbyterian) | Baltimore area |
| Kolya Braun-Greiner | Christian | Metro DC/MD |
| Sam Chamelin | Christian (UCC) | Metro DC/MD |
| Barry Chenkin | Metro DC/MD | |
| Lenard Cohen | Unitarian Universalist | Anywhere |
| William Dinges | Christian (Catholic) | Metro DC |
| Rabbi Fred Scherlinder Dobb | Jewish | Metro DC |
| Rev. Mary Gaut | Christian (Presbyterian) | Anywhere |
| Rabbi Ilan Glazer | Jewish (Renewal) | Anywhere |
| Rev. Darriel Harris | Christian | Baltimore area |
| Pete Johnson | Christian (Lutheran) | MD counties near Baltimore and DC |
| David Kepley | Christian (Presbyterian) | NoVA |
| Jonathan Lacock-Nisly | Christian (Mennonite) | Anywhere |
| Alexei Laushkin | Christian | Anywhere |
| Robin Lewis | Christian | Anywhere |
| Mike Little | Christian | Anywhere |
| Kori Majeed | Muslim | Metro DC |
| Evonne Marzouk | Jewish (Orthodox) | Metro DC |
| Danielle Meitiv | Jewish | Metro DC/MD |
| Dan Misleh | Christian (Catholic) | Metro DC |
| Rev. Merrick Moise | Christian | Baltimore City/Baltimore County |
| Heather Moyer | Christian (UCC) | Baltimore area |
| Beth Norcross | Christian (Methodist) | Metro DC |
| Joelle Novey | Jewish | Anywhere |
| Carolina Peña* | Christian (Catholic) | Metro DC |
| Leonard Robinson | Christian (Catholic) | Metro DC |
| Rini Saha | Hindu | Anywhere |
| Dan Schoos | Christian (Episcopal) | Central/Eastern Maryland, DC |
| Ambereen Shaffie | Muslim | Metro DC/NoVA |
| Fran Teplitz | Jewish | Anywhere |
| Josh Tulkin | Jewish (Reform) | MD counties near Baltimore and DC |
| Sara Via | Unitarian Universalist | Anywhere |
*Can also give presentations in Spanish.
Omar Bagnied
Religious Tradition: Muslim
Programs offered: guest sermon, youth program, adult education, how-to workshop, holiday/liturgical program
Program description: Environmentalism in Islam, principles drawn from the Qur’an, sayings and practice of the Prophet Muhammad, examples from the time of early Islam and scholarly wisdom. Environmental stewardship and practical ways to be energy efficient and water resourceful in places of worship, business and residence. Interfaith, common ground environmental principles that unite faith communities.
Program suitable for: Any congregation
Lives in: Northern Virginia
Location availability: Anywhere
Omar Bagnied is a consultant in the field of sustainable energy and environmental policy, having worked with the World Bank, private firms, and non-profits. He also teaches environmental education with the Anacostia Watershed Society. Omar received his Masters from the University of Washington, Seattle.
Suggested honorarium: $150 (which includes $50 deposit to confirm date).
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org
Lisa Bardack
Religious Tradition: Jewish/Unitarian
Programs offered: adult education
Program description: Lisa offers a presentation that looks at the basic facts on fracking, as well as the moral consequences inherent in fracking and the history of the practice in Maryland. Does fracking honor the basic covenant, to love thy neighbor as thyself? Does it honor our role as stewards of this sacred living Earth and the critical need to protect our natural resources? Does it honor our obligation to children and future generations, to leave the world a better place than we found it? Quality time with congregants to reflect on Maryland’s energy future will follow the presentation.
Program suitable for: Any congregation
Lives in: Baltimore, MD
Location availability: Baltimore area. Willing to present within a 50 mile radius of Baltimore. Will consider other locations on a case-by-case basis.
Lisa Bardack is a writer, social media video producer and multimedia presenter focused primarily on the moral issues inherent in fossil fuel energy and the need to protect our sacred natural resources that sustain life. She has worked for such environmental organizations as The Wilderness Society and Center for Respect of Life and the Environment, where she was involved in the ethical principals for living sustainably on the Earth. Lisa has been involved in the issue of fracking for over three years as both an educator and advocate for a clean energy future.
Suggested honorarium: $150 (which includes $50 deposit to confirm date).
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org
Kristin Barker
Religious Tradition: Buddhist
Programs offered: guest sermon, adult education
Program description: Kristin can offer a talk that draws upon teachings in the Buddhist tradition that convey the importance of caring for the earth and recognizing the interdependence of all beings. Kristin can also share what Buddhism has to say about inaction, climate denialism, and the causes of climate change, which are ultimately rooted in cravings of the human mind, as well as hope and wise action in the face of tremendous suffering for people and the planet. The talk can further touch upon numerous Buddhist teachings on wisdom and compassion aimed at transforming hearts and minds to be peaceful, loving, and socially engaged.
Program suitable for: Any congregation
Lives in: Washington, DC
Location availability: DC metro area
Scheduling availability: Weeknights and weekends
Kristin Barker is the founder of One Earth Sangha (“Sangha” is a Buddhist word for “spiritual community”) to support awakening and responding to the climate crises through education, sustainable living and advocacy. She is also co-founder of White Awake whose mission is to develop awareness around race dynamics among white people engaged in spiritual communities and progressive causes. She is a consultant for and former fellow at GreenFaith, an active member of the Insight Meditation Community of Washington, DC (IMCW) and currently training in the Community Dharma Leaders program through Spirit Rock Meditation Center. Kristin has a Masters in Environmental Management from Duke University.
Suggested honorarium: $150 (which includes $50 deposit to confirm date).
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org
Has spoken at: University of Maryland, Asian American Studies Program
Dr. William Blair
Religious Tradition: Christian (Presbyterian)
Programs offered: youth program, adult education
Program description: Global Warming and Climate Change from Scientific and Faith Perspectives. As a scientist, Dr. Blair attempts to cut through the misinformation and misunderstandings that are so rampant in the public discussion of these issues, but as a person of faith, he is also motivated by his personal awe and fascination with God’s Creation. Dr. Blair knows how to “bring it down to earth,” providing engaging and understandable presentations for all ages.
Program suitable for: Any congregation
Lives in: Towson, MD
Location availability: Typically within an hour of Baltimore, although special cases will be considered.
Dr. William Blair is an astronomer by training and is a research professor in Physics & Astronomy at Johns Hopkins University. He is also a science educator, and has given many public talks, including topics related to science and religion, astronomy, and climate change issues. Dr. Blair has also directed and is still involved with the Creation Care Group in the Presbytery of Baltimore, a group that seeks to engage and support churches in establishing and growing creation care ministries.
Suggested honorarium: $150 (which includes $50 deposit to confirm date).
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org
Has spoken at: St. Anne’s Episcopal Church, St. John’s Episcopal Church
Kolya Braun-Greiner
Religious Tradition: Christian (United Methodist/Presbyterian)
Programs offered: guest sermon, youth program, adult education
Program description: Leads a worship service with sermon focused on environmental stewardship. Offers an interactive/reflective class, workshop, or day retreat for adults or youth on care for Creation, rooted in biblical teaching and church tradition.
Program suitable for: Christian, including Catholic (trained in Catholic Social Teaching)
Lives in: Takoma Park, MD
Location availability: Especially, but not limited, to Metro-accessible; Metro DC/MD
Scheduling availability: A Sunday morning or afternoon is best.
Kolya Braun-Greiner attended Union Theological Seminary in New York City (’92), M.Div., where she helped form a student group, the “Ecologians.” Kolya’s passion for faith-based social justice and ecological concerns spans her career. She served on the staff of United Methodist Women (’93-’00) where she addressed social justice issues impacting women and children. An experienced facilitator and speaker, Kolya has led groups on the environment, Native American land rights, advocacy for farm workers, and non-violence for youth and adults. From ’07-’14 , she worked for the Catholic Climate Covenant, where she wrote the curriculum “Creation Cries for Justice: Climate Change Impacts & Faithful Response,” for JustFaith Ministries. She currently serves as Religious Educator for the Trees for Sacred Places Project at the Interfaith Partners for the Chesapeake.
Suggested honorarium: $150 (which includes $50 deposit to confirm date).
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org
Has spoken at: Emanuel United Methodist Church, Church of the Covenant Presbyterian, Accotink Unitarian Universalist, Hyattsville Mennonite Church
Rev. Sam Chamelin
Religious Tradition: Christian (United Church of Christ)
Programs offered: guest sermon, youth program, adult education, how-to workshop, holiday/liturgical program
Program description: Inspires rural communities and rural congregations to envision rural renewal through sustainable agriculture and ecological conservation. Sam can do sermons, community garden presentations and planning, youth and young adult events, theological education, and spiritual formation exercises rooted in agriculture and ecology.
Program suitable for: Any congregation
Lives in: Lineboro, MD
Location availability: Anywhere within 3 hours of Lineboro, MD
Scheduling availability: Flexible
Rev. Sam Chamelin is the founder of The Keep & Till, a Christian community of faith and farming dedicated to rural renewal through sustainable agriculture and ecological conservation. He is a Re:Generate Fellow with Wake Forest Divinity’s Food, Health, and Ecological Well-Being Initiative, and previously served as the sustainability coordinator at Gettysburg Seminary (now ULS) in Gettysburg, PA. He is ordained in the United Church of Christ.
Suggested honorarium: $150 (which includes $50 deposit to confirm date).
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org
Barry Chenkin
Programs offered: how-to workshop
Program description: Water conservation is an important and necessary step for a healthy environment. Choose from either a slide show presentation about water conservation with rain barrels or a presentation that includes a Make and Take workshop. Costs are per person for the barrel and materials – minimum of 20 participants.
Program suitable for: Any congregation
Lives in: Clarksburg, MD
Location availability: Maryland, Northern Virginia, or DC
Scheduling availability: Weekends are best.
When Barry Chenkin couldn’t locate very functional rain barrel products he developed his own. Now, his efforts have blossomed into Aquabarrel, a rain barrel education and marketing business.
Suggested honorarium: $150 (which includes $50 deposit to confirm date).
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org
Has spoken at: Providence Presbyterian Church, Silverbrook United Methodist Church
Lenard Cohen
Religious Tradition: Unitarian Universalist
Programs offered: adult education
Program description: Two myths cause people and organizations to avoid sustainable investing strategies: (1) socially responsible investing will reduce investment returns, and (2) we cannot get corporations to be more environmentally and socially responsible. Lenard can present proof that these two myths are false and strategies to pursue investments which will make a difference in the world and return competitive results.
Program suitable for: Any congregation
Lives in: Montgomery County
Location availability: Anywhere, generally
Lenard Cohen has been an independent financial advisor since 1981 and his practice emphasizes Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing strategies. He is a Certified Financial Planner and an Accredited Estate Planner. He is a Past President of the Suburban Maryland Estate Planning Council. He is active on several committees of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Rockville.
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org
William D. Dinges
Religious Tradition: Christian (Catholic)
Programs offered: adult education
Program Description: Addresses adult education groups on a variety of issues relating to religion and ecology, as he has done in Catholic parish settings for years.
Program Suitable for: Any congregation
Location Availability: DC metro area
William D. Dinges is a professor of religion and culture in the School of Theology and Religious Studies at the Catholic University of America, where he has taught a course on Religion and Ecology for the past 25 years. He is also a member of the Archdiocese of Washington Care for Creation Committee and the St. John the Baptist (Silver Spring) Eco-Ministry group. William has been active in the Chesapeake Covenant Communities group and various environmental initiatives at Catholic University. He is a native western Kansan, a certified Master Composter, and a serious gardener.
Suggested honorarium: $50.
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org
Rabbi Fred Scherlinder Dobb
Religious Tradition: Jewish (Reconstructionist)
Programs offered: guest sermon, how-to workshop or class
Program description: Addresses Jewish environmental education and activism; greening congregations (including solar panels, organic gardens, and Sacred Grounds Initiative); and/or interfaith approaches to Creation care.
Program suitable for: Any congregation
Lives in: Washington, DC
Location availability: Bethesda or NW DC have best odds for availability; can occasionally travel further afield, to most anywhere in the metro area
Scheduling availability: M-F during the day preferred; weeknights and Sabbath (Saturday) more difficult.
Rabbi Fred Scherlinder Dobb’s full-time commitments are as Rabbi of Adat Shalom Reconstructionist Congregation (an EPA Energy Star congregation in Bethesda Maryland), and as family with Minna, Sara, and Gilad. He is also the past chair of the Interfaith Power & Light (DC.MD.NoVA) steering committee, among other religious environmental volunteer efforts, including serving on the steering committees of Religious Witness for the Earth and the national Coalition on the Environment and Jewish Life. Besides much eco-Jewish research and writing, he received a 2009 Doctor of Ministry from Wesley Theological Seminary, with a thesis on religion and ecology.
Suggested honorarium: $150 (which includes $50 deposit to confirm date), all of which goes to IPL (DC.MD.VA.).
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org
Has spoken at: Baltimore Jewish Environmental Network, InterFaith Conference assembly meeting, All Souls Memorial Episcopal Church, All Souls UU Church, Bethesda United Church of Christ, Saint Camillus Catholic Church, Temple Beth Ami, Partnership for Jewish Life and Learning, Tar Sands Action Interfaith Prayer Vigil, Interfaith Moral Action on Climate, Interfaith Power and Light national conference
Rev. Mary Gaut
Religious Tradition: Christian (Presbyterian)
Programs offered: guest sermon, adult education
Program description: Rev. Mary is able to do presentations in a variety of formats (adult discussions, sermons, speaking) to help people understand the urgency of addressing environmental issues from an ethical/moral/faith based perspective. Mary uses scientific data and insights to explain the nature of the issues but also believes that science alone will not change hearts and behaviors. Rev. Mary is interested in addressing both climate change and watershed issues and as given presentations on Pope Francis’ environmental encyclical Laudato Si. Rev. Mary has several sermons that address our responsibility from Biblical and theological perspectives including one titled: From Tree Huggers to Earth Lovers.
Lives in: Towson, MD
Location availability: Anywhere with proper notice
Scheduling availability: Any time with proper notice
Rev. Mary Gaut is an ordained minister of 32 years in the PCUSA having received her divinity degree from Princeton Seminary in 1981. She also holds degrees in Journalism and Psychology. She served as a pastor at Maryland Presbyterian Church, which has received denominational and ecumenical recognition for its environmental stewardship focus, and served for a year as the Interim General Presbyter of the Presbytery of Baltimore, before retiring in 2016. She is a member of the 2014 fellowship class of GreenFaith, which is an interfaith and international organization committed to addressing environmental issues from a faith based perspective. Mary taught a course in the 2015 Summer Academy at Lancaster Theological Seminary titled “Beyond Recycling: The Moral Urgency of Creating a Sustainable Future,” and in retirement, chairs the Board of Trustees for Interfaith Partners for the Chesapeake and the Ecumenical Leaders Group of Maryland.
Suggested honorarium: $200 (which includes $50 deposit to confirm date).
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org
Has spoken at: Warner Memorial Presbyterian Church
Rabbi Ilan Glazer
Religious Tradition: Jewish (Renewal)
Programs offered: guest sermon, youth program, adult education, how-to workshop, holiday/liturgical program
Program description: Rabbi Ilan can offer sermons, discussions, adult and youth educational programming. He is available for Tu Bishvat programming, scholar-in-residence and other educational opportunities. A gifted storyteller and musician, Rabbi Ilan shares songs and stories of the earth, along with heartfelt presentations about how to live more gently and appreciate the blessings of being alive.
Program suitable for: Any congregation
Lives in: Silver Spring, MD
Location availability: Anywhere
Scheduling availability: Flexible
Rabbi Ilan Glazer is a freelance rabbi, speaker, coach, podcaster (Torah of Life), and soon-to-be author of And God Created Recovery: Jewish Wisdom to Help You Break Free From Your Addiction, Heal Your Wounds, and Unleash Your Inner Freedom. Rabbi Ilan spent several years as a Jewish environmental educator with the Teva Learning Center, cycled thousands of miles on Jewish environmental bike rides with Hazon, and is a member of the Hazon Rabbinical Council. Rabbi Ilan believes that Jewish wisdom can and must enable us to live happier, healthier, holier, and more sustainable lives.
Suggested honorarium: Negotiable
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org
Rev. Darriel Harris
Religious Tradition: Christian
Programs offered: guest sermon, youth program, adult education, how-to workshop
Program description: 30 to 90 minute talks on how our current industrial food system and food choices impacts environmental sustainability, individual health, public health, justice, and equity for both food producers and consumers (e.g., farmer and farmworker issues as well as problems with healthy food accessibility, particularly in urban areas), and farm animal welfare. Talks provide information about not only what is wrong with the system, but also how individuals and congregations can take positive steps to help improve it. Additionally, talks will discuss how individuals can make food choices that enhance their overall health and well-being.
Lives in: Baltimore
Location availability: Anywhere within 60 miles of Baltimore
Scheduling availability: Any time
Rev. Darriel Harris is a project officer of the Baltimore Food and Faith Project run out of the Johns Hopkins University School of Public Health’s Center For a Livable Future. Through the exploration of faith, he has found that faith touches every aspect and corner of our lives. It is his hope to explore the connection between faith and food with communities in the Baltimore region.
Suggested honorarium: $150 (which includes $50 deposit to confirm date)
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org
Has spoken at: United Methodist Seminar Program
Pete Johnson
Religious Tradition: Christian (Lutheran)
Programs offered: youth program, adult education
Program description: A powerpoint presentation with the basics of climate change including potential solutions to this crisis
Program suitable for: Any congregation
Lives in: Silver Spring, MD
Location availability: Montgomery, Prince George’s, Howard, Baltimore and Anne Arundel counties
Pete Johnson is a Lutheran who has worked fighting climate change for eight years as organizer and activist with Greenpeace and the League of Conservation Voters. He is currently the Executive Director of Project Green and Grey, a group that is bringing the voice of those 50 years old and older to the climate movement.
Suggested honorarium: $150 (which includes $50 deposit to confirm date).
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org
David Kepley
Religious Tradition: Christian (Presbyterian)
Programs offered: guest sermon, adult education
Program description:
Arguably the best-known, but least understood stories of the Bible are found in the first three chapters of Genesis. In this adult education class, there will be an opportunity to explore the treasures that these ancient creation stories can tell about God, the creation, and the role God has assigned to humankind. So what is meant by terms like “dominion,” “stewardship,” “blessing,” and “good,” anyway?
Program suitable for: Protestant Christian churches
Lives in: Annandale, VA
Location availability: NoVA
Scheduling availability: Weekends preferred
David Kepley is the chair of the Earth Care Team at Providence Presbyterian, and has taught several adult education classes on creation topics. After a 37-year career at the National Archives, he is now an adjunct history professor at a local community college. His teaching career began over 40 years ago in graduate school and has included stints at the University of Maryland and at NVCC. He has also taught a wide variety of adult education classes at his church for over 25 years. He took several classes at the Virginia Theological Seminary’s School for Lay Theology. David can also provide background information on the Faith Alliance for Climate Solutions, which is encouraging the Fairfax County Government to become more energy efficient.
Suggested honorarium: $150 (which includes $50 deposit to confirm date).
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org
Jonathan Lacock-Nisly
Religious Tradition: Christian (Mennonite)
Programs offered: guest sermon, adult education, holiday/liturgical program
Program description: Jonathan can offer guest sermons or help lead congregational discussions on a faith response to climate change. As IPL’s Director of Faithful Advocacy, Jonathan is always excited to help congregations figure out how they can green their house of worship, their community, and their political representatives!
Program suitable for: Any congregation
Lives in: Washington, DC
Location availability: Anywhere
Scheduling availability: Flexible
As IPL-DMV’s Director of Faithful Advocacy, Jonathan Lacock-Nisly connects religious communities in the region with environmental campaigns to expand clean energy, providing a distinctly moral response to the climate crisis. He is a graduate of Eastern Mennonite University, where he studied Peacebuilding and Development, with minors in Political Studies and Economics. Jonathan comes to this work after several years as an affordable housing advocate with MANNA, Inc., where he saw firsthand the strain that shifting weather patterns is putting on communities in our region. He is a member of the 8th Day Faith Community, a Church of the Saviour congregation. Jonathan feels called to this work in the spirit of the teachings of Menno Simons — the founder of the Mennonite church — that true evangelical faith clothes the naked, feeds the hungry, and comforts the sorrowful.
Suggested honorarium: $150 (which includes $50 deposit to confirm date).
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org
Alexei Laushkin
Religious Tradition: Christian
Programs offered: guest sermon, youth program, adult education
Program description: Global Warming and the Risen Lord: This presentation follows the work of Rev. Jim Ball Ph.D. as reflected in his book, “Global Warming and the Risen Lord: Christian Discipleship and Climate Change.” The presentation walks the congregation through the impacts of climate change that we can expect in our lifetime. There is a special focus and concern for the poor and vulnerable at home and around the world. The second segment focuses on the spiritual and theological resources needed to help ground our walk and work in caring for God’s creation and how Christian theology can help us overcome the challenges of global warming. The final segment focuses on the solutions, including how churches can get involved in supporting solar light and renewable energy work in Africa, Latin America, and around the world.
Program suitable for: Christian churches
Lives in: Alexandria, VA
Location availability: Anywhere
Scheduling availability: Any time
Alexei Laushkin is the Vice President at the Evangelical Environmental Network. A graduate of Claremont McKenna College, he lives with his wife in Alexandria, Virginia.
Suggested honorarium: $150 (which includes $50 deposit to confirm date).
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org
Has spoken at: Christ Church Alexandria, Church of the Covenant Presbyterian
Robin Lewis
Religious Tradition: Christian
Programs offered: adult education
Program description: Presentations or panelist discussions on the impact of environmental issues on community of color and other marginalized communities in Maryland, in particular Prince George’s County and Baltimore City. Additionally, will discuss ways to get involved and advocate for environmental justice in the community.
Program suitable for: Any congregation
Lives in: Camp Springs, MD
Location availability: Anywhere
Scheduling availability: Any time with proper notice, except Sunday mornings
As the Outreach and Social Justice Coordinator at Beloved Community Church in Prince George’s County, Maryland, Robin Lewis believes that she has been called as a Christian to be a voice for environmental justice in her community. After working in business for a long time, she found that her satisfaction was gained by helping to educate others, in particular people of color and other marginalized communities, become more aware of environmental issues that are impacting their quality of life. She is focused on community engagement, organizing and advocating with various local grassroots and faith-based organizations to help to promote collaboration on environmental justice issues.
Suggested honorarium: $150 (which includes $50 deposit to confirm date).
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org
Has spoken at: United Methodist Seminar Program, All Souls Church Unitarian, River Road Unitarian Universalist Congregation
Mike Little
Religious Tradition: Christian (Ecumenical: Church of the Saviour DC)
Programs offered: guest sermon, adult education
Program description: Explores the Biblical, personal, and cultural dimensions of our relationship to money, reflects theologically on the place of money in the realm of God, and examines the power of money in our lives and its impact on our families, institutions, and the world. Sermons, adult education, and day workshops discuss the connection between our faith and our money and resources, and helps empower people to explore their beliefs, attitudes, and practices regarding money.
Program suitable for: Any congregation
Lives in: Silver Spring, MD
Location availability: Anywhere with proper notice
Scheduling availability: Any time with proper notice
Mike Little has twenty-five years of experience with, and commitment to, faith-based, justice-seeking movements for social change. He has a commitment to interfaith dialogue, and is a student of silence and centering prayer. He is a member of the the Church of the Saviour in NW DC, co-pastor of Lazarus Church, and director of Faith and Money Network.
Suggested honorarium: $150 (which includes $50 deposit to confirm date).
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org
Kori Majeed
Religious Tradition: Muslim
Programs offered: youth program, adult education, how-to workshop, holiday/liturgical program
Program description: Kori offers presentations on what Islam says about protecting the planet and what Muslims can do to live lives that are in line with the sustainability inherent in their faith.
Program suitable for: Any congregation
Lives in: Cheverly, MD
Location availability: Metro DC area (DC, Prince George’s & Montgomery Counties, Alexandria & Arlington County)
Scheduling availability: Flexible with proper notice; on Fridays, only available to speak with Muslim organizations or mosques
Kori Majeed is a homeschooling mom to a gaggle of five girls, fun starter, Girl Scout troop leader, congregant of Masjid Muhammad, and Green Faith Fellow. Every Ramadan, she works to remind Muslims to eat mindfully and tread lightly, and learn about sustainability issues through an Islamic lens. Read more at GreenRamadan.com.
Suggested honorarium: $150 (which includes $50 deposit to confirm date).
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org
Evonne Marzouk
Religious Tradition: Jewish (Orthodox)
Programs offered: guest sermon, adult education, holiday/liturgical program
Program description: Text study and lecture on a range of holiday and Torah topics as they relate to the environment; model Tu Bishvat seders. Also available to partner with congregations/communities to design programs that will work for you.
Program suitable for: Jewish congregations (any denomination)
Location availability: Anywhere in the DC area
Scheduling availability: Any time with proper notice; on Shabbat (Friday or Saturday), only able to speak if an Orthodox community is nearby (within 1.5 miles).
Evonne Marzouk is the founder and former Executive Director of Canfei Nesharim (www.CanfeiNesharim.org), which educates and empowers Jewish individuals, organizations and communities to take an active role in protecting the environment. Evonne has spoken worldwide on the Torah-environment connection, and also lead green teams in her former and current Jewish communities. She lives in Silver Spring, MD, with her husband and son. In 2009, she was selected as one of The New York Jewish Week‘s “36 under 36.” In addition, Evonne has worked for over ten years in the Office of International and Tribal Affairs at EPA (though talks given through this Speakers’ Bureau are in her private capacity). Evonne is also the founder of Jewcology.com, a social media portal which is bringing Jews who care about the environment together from around the world to network and engage each other in shared campaigns.
Suggested honorarium: $250 (which includes $50 deposit to confirm date).
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org
Has spoken at: Kehila Chadasha, Kemp Mill Synagogue, Beth El Hebrew Congregation (Alexandria)
Danielle Meitiv
Religious Tradition: Jewish
Programs offered: youth program, adult education
Program description: Danielle offers a powerpoint presentation and/or talk on the science of climate change, its impacts and what can be done to heal the planet.
Program suitable for: Any faith tradition; can also tailor presentation for a Jewish audience
Lives in: Silver Spring, MD
Location availability: DC and Maryland; prefers Metro-accessible locations
Scheduling availability: Prefers weekdays but can be flexible. Will not travel on Shabbat (sundown Friday evenings through sundown Saturday evenings).
Danielle Meitiv is an oceanographer by training who worked as a climate scientist for the Clean Air Task Force (www.catf.us). She specializes in near-term solutions to reduce warming gases and aerosols in Asia and on the impacts of climate change on the oceans. Danielle has taught environment awareness to all ages from kindergarten to adults in settings as diverse as classrooms, coral reefs, salt marshes, forests, in print, on the air, and in the urban forests and parks of New York City. In 2006, Danielle co-led a course as part of Brandeis’ Genesis Program titled “Sources and Resources: Jewish Values, Humanity, and the Environment.”
Suggested honorarium: $150 (which includes $50 deposit to confirm date).
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org
Dan Misleh
Religious Tradition: Christian (Roman Catholic)
Programs Offered: youth program, adult education, holiday/liturgical program
Program description: Dan offers presentations around the country on the Catholic approach to climate change and creation, as well as Pope Francis’ eco-encyclical, Laudato Si’. As the executive director of Catholic Climate Covenant, he spearheaded the effort to design and promote the Covenant’s signature initiative, The St. Francis Pledge to Care for Creation and the Poor, as well as the annual Feast of St. Francis and several other ongoing programs and initiatives. He has forty years of experience working within the social justice tradition of the Catholic Church, and is a leading figure in the U.S. church’s effort to care for creation and care for the poor.
Program suitable for: Catholic, Eastern Orthodox congregations
Lives in: Cheverly, Maryland
Location availability: Any Catholic parishes within driving distance of Metro DC
Dan Misleh is a baptized Catholic who has dedicated his career to promoting Catholic social teaching, first as a Jesuit Volunteer and then through his work at the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops both as an advisor on domestic policy issues, including the environment, and as director of diocesan relations for the Department of Justice, Peace and Human Development. In 2006 he became the founding director of Catholic Climate Covenant which inspires the US Church to care for creation and care for the poor. The Covenant advances this teaching by working with existing Catholic institutions and encouraging integration of climate change activities — consistent with Church teaching — into their ongoing activities and through their networks.
Suggested honorarium: $150 (which includes $50 deposit to confirm date).
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org
Has spoken at: St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament, Holy Trinity, University of Dayton, Catholic Social Ministry Gathering, St Mary’s College, University of Texas at Austin, Chicago Theological Union, Boston College
Rev. Merrick Moise
Religious Tradition: Christian
Programs offered: guest sermon, youth program, adult education, how-to workshop
Program description: A perspective on Christian tradition and care for creation/how to get involved in Annapolis from a faith perspective/public education of local legislators/lobbying your state legislators
Program suitable for: Christian (any denomination), Unitarian-Universalist, Buddhist, Ethical Society/Humanist, African-American Churches (any denomination)
Lives in: Baltimore
Location availability: Baltimore City/Baltimore County
Rev. Merrick Moise is an ordained and licensed Christian minister, writer, community activist, and teacher living in Baltimore. This native New Yorker is a graduate of Morgan State University. Rev. Merrick has served as an organizer for the Maryland Climate Coalition, as well as Groundswell Energy. Rev. Merrick was also the first Black field organizer for Equality MD, MD’s LGBT civil rights organization. Rev. Merrick was a co-chair of Creating Change 2012, the National Conference on LGBT equality.
Suggested honorarium: $150 (which includes $50 deposit to confirm date).
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org
Heather Moyer
Religious Tradition: Christian (United Church of Christ)
Programs offered: guest sermon, youth program, adult education, how-to workshop
Program description: Heather offers presentations on the basics of climate change and the big and little steps people can take to make a difference – all from a faith-based perspective.
Program suitable for: Any Christian or UU congregation
Lives in: Baltimore
Location availability: Baltimore area
Scheduling availability: Free on Sunday mornings and most Tuesday evenings. Could do Saturdays with plenty of advance notice. And can do Wednesday nights starting in March.
Heather Moyer has worked at Sierra Club for over nine years. She is a co-founder of six:eight UCC in Baltimore, and helped the national United Church of Christ write and approve a resolution condemning mountaintop removal coal mining. She is a member of the Interfaith Power & Light (DC.MD.NoVA) steering committee.
Suggested honorarium: $150 (which includes $50 deposit to confirm date).
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org
Beth Norcross
Religious Tradition: Christian (United Methodist)
Programs Offered: guest sermon, congregational talks, adult or older youth education, outdoor studies
Program Descriptions: Beth speaks and preaches on the Scriptural and ecological imperatives to protect the earth. She also leads workshops and retreats on greening congregations and nature and spirituality.
Program suitable for: Any congregation
Lives in: Arlington, VA
Scheduling Availability: Will schedule on a case-by-case basis
As Founding Director of the Center for Spirituality in Nature, Beth leads programs in nature designed to deepen spirituality and encourage loving relationships with all of God’s creatures. Beth also is adjunct faculty in eco-theology and eco-spirituality at Wesley Theological Seminary, where she teaches pastors-in-training to infuse earth kinship and care into their developing theologies. Combining a long career in the environmental field with theological training, Beth has written a number of educational resources, including a five-session religious study guide to the new Ken Burns film “The National Parks: America’s Best Idea.” Beth is a former chair of the Interfaith Power & Light (DC.MD.NoVA) steering committee.
Suggested honorarium: $150 (which includes $50 deposit to confirm date).
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org
Has spoken at:Bradley Hills Presbyterian Church, Chesapeake Covenant Communities, Fairlington United Methodist Church, Metropolitan Memorial United Methodist Church, Silverbrook United Methodist Church
Joelle Novey
Religious Tradition: Jewish
Programs offered: guest sermon, congregational talks, adult education, how-to workshop, retreats
Program Descriptions:
Joelle speaks widely in congregations throughout the region about the role of people of faith in responding to climate change. She can facilitate a congregational conversation about responding faithfully to climate change, a strategic organizing meeting for a green team, or can work with you to develop an appropriate program. Joelle can give a dvar torah on themes of climate and environment in any Jewish congregation. Also happy to give a guest sermon in congregations of other religious traditions, with a little guidance from folks at the congregation!
Program suitable for: Any congregation
Lives in: Silver Spring, MD
Location availability: Anywhere
Scheduling availability: Flexible
Joelle Novey is the director of Interfaith Power & Light (DC.MD.NoVA). Most recently, Joelle worked at Green America (formerly Co-op America), where she wrote dozens of articles about greener living for the organization’s newsletter and magazine. She is a founder of Tikkun Leil Shabbat, an independent Jewish community in Washington DC which has hosted speakers from environmental and social justice organizations. She is the co-author of Green and Just Celebrations, a purchasing guide for local congregations for assisting families in making greener purchasing decisions around weddings and bar and bat mitzvah celebrations. Joelle is a magna cum laude graduate of Harvard University where she received a BA in Social Studies, and completed the coursework for a minor in the Study of Religion. For more than a year, she counseled hospital patients of all backgrounds and led interfaith worship services through a chaplain training program at Washington Hospital Center.
Suggested honorarium: Negotiable
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org
Has recently spoken at: Bolton Street Synagogue, Chizuk Amuno Congregation, Davies Memorial Unitarian Universalist Church, Dumbarton United Methodist Church, Seekers Church, Temple B’nai Israel (Easton, MD), Trinity Catholic Georgetown
Carolina Peña
Religious Tradition: Christian (Catholic)
Programs Offered: youth program, adult education
Program description: Carolina can give presentations regarding climate action and environmental awareness in the US and Latin America, and specifically through the lens of her Catholic faith.
Program suitable for: Unitarian Universalist and Christian congregations, including Spanish-speaking faith communities
Lives in: Washington, DC
Location availability: Metro-accessible locations in the DC area
Scheduling availability: Weekends or weekdays after 6pm
Carolina Peña, originally from Bolivia, has been living in the US since 2001. She worked in international development for 14 years with Latin American and Caribbean countries. She recently joined the ranks of the Climate Leadership Reality Project and Eco-Action Arlington as a volunteer, giving climate education presentations and conducting energy audits in low-income households.
Suggested honorarium: $150 (which includes $50 deposit to confirm date).
To schedule:programassociate@ipldmv.org
Leonard Robinson
Religious Tradition: Christian (Catholic)
Programs offered: guest sermon, youth program, adult education
Program description: Leonard can speak about the opportunities and challenges of a Green Economy, as well as opportunities to learn about and take climate action.
Program suitable for: Any Christian or Jewish congregation
Lives in: Fort Washington, MD
Location availability: Prince George’s County, Washington DC, Arlington and Alexandria, VA
Scheduling Availability: Any time with proper notice, except Wednesday evenings
Leonard Robinson has over 40 years of environmental experience in the public; private and non-profit sectors, and currently hosts a “green” radio show on WERA 96.7FM. He was a part of the Executive Team under former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger that put together California’s Climate Change Policy.
Suggested honorarium: $150 (which includes $50 deposit to confirm date).
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org
Rini Saha
Religious Tradition: Hindu
Programs offered: guest sermon, youth program, adult education, how-to workshop
Program description: Rini offers presentations on the “HOW and WHY” of reducing plastic use, including how landfills, incinerators, and recycling work, in addition to practical tips on how to reduce plastic in day-to-day life.
Program suitable for: Any congregation
Lives in: Takoma Park, MD
Location availability: Anywhere
Scheduling Availability: Flexible
Rini Saha is the founder of GreenThinker DC, a nonprofit dedicated to helping people reduce their plastic use by promoting zero and low waste living in the DC area. Both her Indian heritage and Hindu faith inform her work, including the value placed on living in harmony with nature. She spent 7 years as a special education teacher in DC before teaching a recycling lesson led to discovering a new passion in helping people live more eco-conscious lives.
Suggested honorarium: $150 (which includes $50 deposit to confirm date).
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org
Dan Schoos
Religious Tradition: Christian (Episcopal)
Programs offered: guest sermon, adult education
Program description: The talk offers focus on why stewardship of creation is an expression of faith, and how the call to “love your neighbor” is woven into our call to sustain and renew the planet and all that it nurtures. Messages explore either the lectionary or customized readings offered for a particular service. For adult education, the program offers seminar style discussion around a short reading (or set of readings) as well as offering and soliciting ideas for how congregations can become “greener” and help their members do so, as well.
Program suitable for: Unitarian-Universalist, Protestant, Quaker, Mennonite, Church of the Brethren
Lives in: Annapolis, MD
Location availability: Central & Eastern Maryland, Washington DC
Scheduling availability: Flexible
Dan Schoos is a member of the Maryland Episcopal Environmental Partnership; this committee is charged with promoting ideas for “greening” the diocese and raising awareness about how faith should inform our decisions about environmental stewardship. He is an active member of All Hallow Parish, South River, where he has led the Men’s Breakfast group and been a facilitator for the Via Media Christian formation program. He works at the Key School in Annapolis, an independent PK-12 day school, teaching Latin and Science, and as an adjunct in the Outdoor Education department.
Suggested honorarium: $150 (which includes $50 deposit to confirm date).
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org
Ambereen Shaffie
Religious Tradition: Muslim
Programs offered: guest sermon, youth program, adult education, how-to workshop, holiday/liturgical program
Program description: Ambereen is passionate about and can offer programming in the following areas: faith and environmental issues, women’s issues and gender justice, Islamic law, climate change, advocacy, interfaith unity, conflict resolution, engaging in difficult conversations across faiths and cultures, racial justice, negotiating across religious boundaries, and building faith communities in times of crisis.
Program suitable for: Any congregation
Lives in: Alexandria, VA
Location availability: Metro DC area; preferably within 30-45 minute drive of Alexandria
Scheduling availability: Flexible, except Friday during the day due to Jummah
Ambereen Shaffie is an environmental attorney based in Washington, DC. She has an LLM in International and Comparative Law from the American University in Cairo, a JD from the University of Kansas School of Law, and a BA in Economics and International Studies from the University of Kansas. She is proud to work on a multilateral level, where she engages with the business, NGO, and civil society communities as well as government agencies in her work with her firm, Shaffie Law and Policy, which focuses on international environmental law and policy, including climate, energy efficiency, energy security, water law, and sustainable development issues. Her interfaith work includes a range of trainings, trust-building, and service projects around the DC metro area, including her work with the DC Chapter of the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom, a Muslim-Jewish interfaith women’s group Ambereen co-founded and co-led for 2.5 years.
Suggested honorarium: Negotiable
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org
Has spoken at: All Souls Church Unitarian
Fran Teplitz
Religious Tradition: Jewish
Programs offered: adult education, how-to workshop
Program description: Fran is passionate about and can offer programming in the following areas: socially and environmentally responsible investing and banking, shareholder action, values that undergird the green economy, fossil fuel divestment, corporate campaigns to protect people and the planet, and green businesses.
Program suitable for: Any congregation
Lives in: Silver Spring, MD
Location Availability: Anywhere, would prefer metro-accessible locations
Scheduling availability: Flexible
Fran Teplitz is a lifelong activist dedicated to improving the well-being of our Earth, including human communities and our environmental heritage. She is Jewish and values faith-based and interfaith collaborations that give rise to our highest human values and make manifest the oneness of Creation.
Suggested honorarium: $150 (which includes $50 deposit to confirm date).
To schedule:programassociate@ipldmv.org
Josh Tulkin
Religious Tradition: Jewish (Reform)
Programs offered: guest sermon, how-to workshop
Program description: Josh is passionate about engaging more of the faith community in advocating for environmental protection and green jobs,and can speak to specific issues and opportunities for congregations to engage. Josh has several years of experience helping congregations go green and can offer a history and guide congregations in important first steps towards greening their communities.
Program suitable for: Any congregation
Lives in: Silver Spring, MD
Location Availability: Would prefer Montgomery, Prince George’s, Howard, Baltimore, and Frederick counties
Josh Tulkin has been the Director of the Maryland Sierra Club since 2011. He has worked to build support in the Jewish community for environmental protection, through public policy and through personal action. Josh helped organize the first Baltimore Jewish Environmental Conference, supported Jewish communities on college campuses in focusing more on sustainability, and organized Jewish community support for federal green jobs policies. As Advocacy Director for the Jewish Funds for Justice (now Bend the Arc), Josh advocated for federal policies which built the clean energy economy.
Suggested honorarium: $150 (which includes $50 deposit to confirm date).
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org
Has spoken at: Humanities Council of DC, Shaare Torah
Dr. Sara Via
Religious Tradition: Unitarian Universalist
Programs offered: guest sermon, youth education, adult education
Program description: Sara can give several different presentations:
1) basics on climate change, its impacts across the US, and what individuals can do about it,
2) discussion of health impacts of climate change and what we can do to protect ourselves,
3) discussion of climate change in the garden and home landscape and how gardeners can both adapt to current changes and mitigate future change,
4) discussion of the impacts of climate change on natural populations of animals and plants and what we can do about it. For youth, a discussion of the basics, an activity like calculating their carbon footprints, and reflection on how climate change is both a problem and an opportunity.
Program suitable for: Any congregation
Lives in: Ellicott City, MD
Location Availability: Anywhere
Dr. Sara Via is a professor of Biology and Entomology at UMD College Park. She became aware of the problems of climate change years ago while studying human impacts on ecosystems for lectures to her introductory biology class. Now, as a scientist and a parent, Sara works with community groups, high schools, and universities to increase public awareness of the scientific reality of climate change and to motivate effective action to curb its rapid progression.
Suggested honorarium: $150 (which includes $50 deposit to confirm date).
To schedule: programassociate@ipldmv.org