Creating a Green Team
You're probably here because you care about people, about your church, and about God's creation. And you can begin to help your church move toward "green-ness" by yourself.
But for long-term changes in your congregation's environmental passion and action, you need a team!
So how do you start?
If you have a small group, a Sunday School class, a circle or just a few friends, one great way to start is to join together in studying Bishop Sally Dyck and Sarah Ehrman's resource book, A Hopeful Earth: Faith, Science, and the Message of Jesus.
When you start working to create such a team, first notice where folks' concerns already are.
For example, climate scientist Katharine Hayhoe writes, "People already care about the climate. The trick is getting them to realize it." So listen first. Find points of agreement; pick one activity everyone on the team can get behind. And include a variety of viewpoints on your green team.
What if - at this point - there's no one else passionate about the earth?
Come to the UMC Mission Earthkeepers training hosted by Northern Illinois Conference October 24-27, 2019! Of course, bring a friend or three if you can! Some of us will be able to commute; lodging will also be available. We don't yet have all the details, so follow our Facebook page for up to the minute info.
Here is the link to the 2018 Earthkeeper events, to give you a taste.
What to do next? If possible, contact Faith in Place or Elevate Energy for an energy audit and take one of the steps they suggest. Celebrate your success! Then do another. Celebrate again!
Plan to show a video during Earth Week, or share a book with your youth, your book study group or your children's Sunday School lifting up care of God's earth. Share what you learned in the newsletter, or have the children or youth make a presentation in worship. Check out the blog for continually updated resource lists.
Next check out the eight topics listed under the "Projects" menu tab and pick one or more of the suggestions to research and implement. After each success, remember to celebrate in worship!