Earth Ministries



Helping Individuals and Congregations
Connect Christian Faith with Care for the Earth
Helping Individuals and Congregations
Connect Christian Faith with Care for the Earth


The Pattern Map of a Sabbath Economy

(A Work in Progress)


   This pattern map is an attempt to depict and describe, in theological terms, a sustainable economy. The map is centered on the Triple E's of Equity, Economy and Ecology which together constitute a trinity of sustainability. These Triple E's are represented in the diagram below as a tri-circle figure. Theologically speaking, this tri-circle figure represents the foundation upon which Gods' Sabbath Economy can emerge.
   God's Sabbath Economy is represented by the area in the tri-circle diagram in which the circles of equity, ecology and economy overlap. The degree to which the Triple E's overlap in the diagram represents how comprehensively Social Capital, Economic Capital and Natural Capital will have been integrated into a sustainable Sabbath Economy. Expanding this overlapping area leads to an increasing sustainability in which people, planet and prosperity are each accorded their proper place. This is both "desirable and achievable" and we hope this pattern map, developed by Ecotrust and used gratefully in adapted form by Earth Ministry, can help Christians and the Church better understand the concept of sustainability and empower them for the privilege of growing in relationship with God, people and the earth. By providing a "visual and conceptual framework," the pattern map is useful in helping to make the comprehensive subject of sustainability, Gods Sabbath Economy, more comprehensible.

"……by the same Spirit
we are moulded together into one fellowship of life;
such is your pattern that everything speaks of you
and every speck of dust
is transfused with glory…… "

    -   Andrew Linzey, Animal Rites, p. 54
"God so love the world that he gave his only Son, Jesus Christ to save us from our sins. Our hope thus lies in Jesus Christ, Creator who became created; the Lord of all who came to serve all. Here is our pattern, our hope. Here the transformation of death into life again, destruction into recreation."

    -   The Advent Eucharist Liturgy, Priory Church of St. Peter and St. Paul