Edited by Silvia Purdie. Published by Philip Garside Publishing, 2020. (NZD 35). Reviewed by Moeawa Callaghan

Silvia Purdie describes this book as “narrative eco-missiology”. Narrative because it is based on human experience as a place from which truth is spoken. Eco stands for ecology and care of creation. Missiology represents the emerging mission movement in Aotearoa. The book is a collaborative project incorporating the stories of 30 women from diverse backgrounds, ages and experiences who have in common a commitment to faith-based work. Each story, each chapter, concludes with a karakia, poem or waiata followed by action-based recommendations for Churches and readers. The last chapter presents a theology in conversation with several contributors. The use of the image of kahikatea trees, introduced by Hirini Melbourne’s song “E Tū Kahikatea”, perfectly symbolises this project of women supporting one another in their work for the environment. The book provides an up-to-date picture of eco-missiology in Aotearoa with guidelines for those interested in learning more and take steps to contribute to caring for God’s creation. And for people like me, it provides a rare insight into eco-happenings in this country and women’s involvement in the movement.

Tui Motu Magazine. Issue 267 November 2022: 31