My review of the ELCA statement on the environment was a bit criticle, but I'm criticle about most of the ELCA social statements as they never seem to say anything of substance and instead stay on neutral ground, fearful of rocking the boat.
I felt exactly opposite about the International Catholic-Jewish Liaison Committee's "A Common Declaration on the Environment." A Common Declaration on the Environment
This document was short and to the point and simply by its existence pointed to dire need we are in. Catholics and Jews came together to make a statement on the environment, putting aside their religious differences and focusing instead on what they agree on and what needs to be done. Although they do not give any concrete ways to "fix" any of the problems faced by the world, they do passionately remind us that we must do something and take action. They say, "The human person has an immense responsibility, that of caring for all of creation. No person or group can use the resources of this earth as proprietor, but only as God's steward who destined these goods for all. Assuring that individuals and communities have access to what is necessary to sustain life in dignity is an expression of this stewardship, as is the reverent and moderate use of created goods." It is short, sweet, to the point and reminds us of both what we can and cannot do.
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