faith-based environmental initiatives: the example of the presbyterian church (usa) ’ s

Faith-Based Environmental Initiatives:

The example of the Presbyterian Church (USA)’sEarth Care Congregations Program

Megan M. Gregory

ESA Ecology Outreach toFaith Communities Initiative

Conference Call15 November 2012

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What is Earth Care Congregations?

• Certification program for PC(USA) churches to recognize and encourage Earth-care efforts

Worship, Education, Facilitates, & Outreach

• A Guide to Greening Presbyterian ChurchesInstructions, environmental audit worksheets, ideas, links

• An annually renewable certificate for churches that continue their efforts to care for the earth

www.presbyterianmission.org/ministries/environment/ earth-care-congregations/

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Earth Care in Action!

↑ Facilities:Church habitat

garden

↑ EducationNYC Gardens Work Trip

↓ OutreachHighway Clean-Ups

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Value of Earth Care Congregations

• Raises congregational awareness, appreciation, and participation in environmental efforts

• Framework for reflecting on & improving environmental stewardship

• Connection to other churches committed to Earth care

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Why learn about national environmental initiatives of faith communities?• Understand values & strengths of

the communities you’ll work withWhat elements in their tradition can support, encourage, and inform environmental work?

• Resources for education and environmental action

• Find congregations interested in partnering for Earth stewardship efforts

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Thank you!

For more information:

meganmgregory1@gmail.com

www.presbyterianmission.org/ministries/environment/ earth-care-congregations/

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