Message from our Eco-Minister
August 16th
August 2023
As the glorious days of August move toward September, we sense transitions in the air – sunsets are happening earlier, vacations are wrapping up, garden harvests are coming in, and thoughts are turning toward church programs resuming and students returning to school. Here are two eco-ministry items to have on your radar for September.
Climate Strike
On September 15th, another Global Climate Strike is in the works. I am not certain at this point about which communities have events in the works, but I would like to encourage congregations to make use of Kairos Canada’s resource Fold Yourself Into a Commitment for the Earth. Noa Baergen of First Mennonite Church was on the interfaith youth planning team that created this call to commitment. Also, if there is a climate strike planned for your town or city, I would challenge all of our pastors to ask the youth of their congregation if they could attend with them. Having the church show support of what youth care about is a big deal!
Season of Creation
On September 1st, we enter into an ecumenical liturgical season called The Season of Creation. Last month I offered a few links to worship series that are available for the six-week season from September 1st through Thanksgiving. Perhaps you aren’t looking for a full series, but would like to do one creation-focused service outdoors yet this fall while the weather is still nice. Here is a link to a forest church worship outline you can adapt to your setting.