The Elisha Project is a national initiative to resource and empower a new generation of science and environmental theology educators for Theological Educational Institutions (TEIs).
Developed by the Theological Colleges Environmental Network (TCEN), the Elisha Project is an exciting new opportunity for early career church leaders, theological educators and scientists to transform the churches' response to climate emergency and global environmental challenges.
TCEN has been awarded a major grant of £60,000 through the Science for Seminaries programme to launch The Elisha Project.
Under the auspices of ECLAS (Equipping Church Leadership in an Age of Science), Science for Seminaries awards are given to projects which integrate cutting-edge science in the core curriculum of seminaries in the UK and Republic of Ireland.
Running from January 2027 – January 2028, it will bring together early-career theologians, church leaders and scientists, with mid- and later-career professionals, to create a network of relationships for future projects and collaboration. It will establish the ministry and missional importance of science and environmental theology in participating TEIs, and strengthen the TCEN network as a resource to provide expertise for all UK TEIs into the future.
Running from January 2027 – January 2028, it will bring together early-career theologians, church leaders and scientists, with mid- and later-career professionals, to create a network of relationships for future projects and collaboration. It will establish the ministry and missional importance of science and environmental theology in participating TEIs, and strengthen the TCEN network as a resource to provide expertise for all UK TEIs into the future.
Lucas Mix, ECLAS Co-Director and lead for Science for Seminaries, hailed the project as creative and strategic, said:
"The Elisha Project has potential for a profound impact, equipping the next generation of Christians for environmental mission and ministry."
He expressed the greatest respect for and trust in the expertise of project leads, Dr Martin Hodson and Revd Margot Hodson, alongside theological educators, Dr Tim Middleton and Dr Grace Milton. Margot said:
"We are excited to have the opportunity to lead the Elisha Project. Elisha was a prophet of great wisdom who healed through nature and had a profound impact in society. We are hoping to recruit 20 new 'Elishas' who have the potential to be just as effective in using their science and theology to bring the healing message of caring for Creation to new generations of Christians and church leaders. Even beyond the church, they will be equipped to contribute to the wider national conversation about these issues with knowledge, wisdom and theological insight."
The programme will explore key themes, including climate change, biodiversity and science communication, alongside theological reflection and practical applications for ministry and mission.
Participants will take part in conferences, webinars and mentoring, while developing a practical project or assignment relevant to their context. This could include:
- integrating environmental themes into theological training
- leading events or conversations on creation care
- helping shape institutional approaches to environmental mission and theology
Margot and Martin are going to have a busy summer, spreading the word about the Elisha Project and inviting applications. Margot said:
"Now we have this funding, our next step is to recruit participants. The programme is intended to be manageable alongside existing ministry, study or work commitments. If you know early-career environmental scientists, theologians or vicars and pastors who might like to apply to take part, please encourage them to get in touch."
For further information or to express interest, contact project lead Revd Margot Hodson at: margot.hodson@jri.org.uk