The messenger matters

Building trusting, and rewarding relationships with religious communities requires ecologists to understand that communication is a ministry of formation not just information. While we wish to share scientific knowledge the process in which that is accomplished will differ depending upon denomination.  Collaboration with religious leaders can assist messengers in framing the context of communications for empowering congregation members to become leaders of change within both religious and secular realms.  A successful messenger is one whom is willing to listen, understands religious communities are led by faith., is sensitive and respectful to tradition and open to non-traditional ways of sharing messages.