2025 marks the 40th anniversary of Lutheran theologian H. Paul Santmire’s pathbreaking The Travail of Nature: The Ambiguous Ecological Promise of Christian Theology (Fortress Press, 1985). There Santmire argued, “It seems clear that Christian theologians have a public responsibility to respond to [the environmental crisis] in terms of both a critical appropriation of their own tradition and a constructive exploration of the possibility of new ways of valuing nature, along with new ways of affirming the values of human history.” This ecumenical, global, and intergenerational panel of clergy and activists, biblical scholars and theologians takes up Santmire’s challenge by examining how the Lutheran theologian’s own canon has aided the emergence of ecotheologies and influenced the reformation of histories, liturgies, pastoral leadership, and spiritual practices. In the spirit of honoring his legacy this panel asks: how might Santmire’s work help us think alongside new global ecological problems and promises?
Roundtable Session
In-person November Annual Meeting 2025
The Eco-theological Legacy of H. Paul Santmire
Saturday, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Presiding
Abstract for Online Program Book (maximum 150 words)
Audiovisual Requirements
LCD Projector and Screen
Play Audio from Laptop Computer
Other
We may need to Zoom in a panelist and will therefore need wi-fi access and appropriate support.
Comments
As discussed via email with Unit chairs Marit and Jake, details related to this panel are emergent. Confirmation of some participants’ involvement is forthcoming. Those listed as participants are a firm ‘yes.’ The final composition of the panel should be set by September 1, 2025. If the Unit receives paper proposals related to the Santmire call additional inclusion in the panel may be possible. Because the panel seeks to lift up numerous voices and is intended to be conversational, there won’t be time for the reading of full papers. However, conversations related to the publication of a supplemental issue are underway. Should that occasion arise, panelists and other paper proposals could contribute to such a volume. Finally, it should be noted that I have been in touch with Rev. Dr. Santmire’s daughter about Paul’s presence at the panel. Because he lives in Boston and has family support, Paul intends to join. He may give a very brief word of gratitude to the panel, but has no desire to offer formal responses given his current health concerns. NOTE: If possible it would be nice to schedule this session immediately before the Fortress Press reception, as Fortress Press plans to honor Paul’s legacy in some way.