In a recent message, Desirée Bernard expressed her gratitude and excitement as she steps into the role of Executive Director for the New Mexico and El Paso chapter of Interfaith Power and Light (IPL). She takes over from Sister Joan Brown, who co-founded the chapter nearly two decades ago. Bernard praised Brown's dedication to climate action, saying, "Joan’s embodied love and commitment to just action in the face of the reality of climate change shines a bright light in our region.

"Bernard also acknowledged Clara Sims, who will continue as Assistant Executive Director. "Clara’s inclusive leadership has been such an inspiration and tremendous support during this time of organizational transition," Bernard stated. 

Bernard shared her background, mentioning her education at Harvard Divinity School and previous work in housing, homelessness, and behavioral health. Her commitment to addressing climate change emerged from environmental science classes taken in college during the late 1990s. A chance meeting with Sister Joan Brown last summer led to her current position at IPL.

Interfaith Power and Light aims to inspire people of faith to take action on global warming. Their vision is a stable climate where humans live interconnected with nature. Bernard highlighted that grassroots communities like theirs are essential as federal government policies may not prioritize climate challenges.

She emphasized New Mexico's potential leadership role due to its significant fossil fuel extraction activities. Quoting Joanna Macy’s ‘Work That Reconnects,’ Bernard described their approach as a "spiral journey" beginning with gratitude, acknowledging pain for the world, seeing with new eyes, and committing to action.

Bernard invited community involvement: "We will stay in touch with you and invite you to stay in touch with us as we move forward." She concluded by affirming collective responsibility: "We ourselves are truly the ones we have been waiting for; and now is our time."