Environmental stewardship is a God-given duty. Last year, General Assembly endorsed Covenanting for Justice in the Economy and the Earth, a document from the World Alliance of Reformed Churches, and endorsed a clean water initiative of KAIROS (Canadian Ecumenical Justice Initiatives) and the Canadian Catholic Organization for Development and Peace.
Behind the talk, however, there must be action. Behind the large declarations made by international and national organizations, there must be local initiatives.
We hear the call of the Earth; we understand we are stewards of God's world. This month, the Record explores ways we can live lightly on Earth.
Respecting one another and the Earth
by Amy MacLachlan
It was in Japan where she grew up that Janette McIntosh first understood the connection between the environment and humanity. In the concrete jungle of Osaka, where the smell of burning rubber wafted from working class homes, McIntosh saw her neighbours struggling to make ends meet while their health deteriorated, the result of small manufacturing shops in their basements. She also remembers the fresh smell of sushi and the glorious month each summer when her family – three siblings and missionary parents Rev. Jack and Beth McIntosh – would escape to Lake Nojiri for vacation. “I realized there’s a beautiful world out there of God’s creation and wonder to be thankful for.”…
A few ways a congregation can more Earth-friendly.
Environmental awareness resources
The Presbyterian Church’s Social Handbook, Energy workbook for religious buildings, On Lightbulbs, Polar Bears and the Earth’s Future…
Small steps can make big differences
by Joel Coppieters
While concerned churches have already taken small steps to reduce their environmental footprint, most of the damage comes from the energy buildings use. Typically, the grander the architecture, the harder it is to heat, power and light efficiently. With our better understanding of environmental issues and the higher cost of fuel, many congregations would build very differently if they had a chance to start from scratch. Here are some simple steps that can make a significant difference.
Reports from Knox, Waterloo, Ontario; Renfrew, Ontario; Pinawa Christian Fellowship; Camp Glen Mhor…
Raising adults by raising crops
by Amy MacLachlan
Gardening as a cure to gun crime? For Solomon Boyé, a former elder at Victoria Royce Church, Toronto, the two ideas are a match. “Nature is resilient but you have to abide by the rules,” said Boyé. “If you don’t weed, the plants will be choked out. If you don’t water, the plants will wither and die. We use the garden to teach patience and caring.”
