✝ Stewards of the Bay: Churches for the Chesapeake—Water Action Toolkit NATIONAL COUNCIL OF CHURCHES USA ECO-JUSTICE PROGRAM A Toolkit for Congregations in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed
Transcript
Stewards of the Bay: A Toolkit for Congregations in the
Chesapeake Bay WatershedChurches for the ChesapeakeWater Action
ToolkitN AT I O N A L C O U N C I L O F C H U R C H E S U S
AECO-JUSTICE PROGRAM
Stewards of the Bay:A Toolkit for Congregations in the
Chesapeake Bay WatershedWriters: Joanna Butcher and Cassandra
CarmichaelReviewers/Contributors: Bill Breakey, Charlie Conklin,
John Hill, Corinne Irwin, Beth Norcross,and Rev. Arthur H.
UnderwoodEditors: Cassandra Carmichael and Kimberley
MarchantDesign: Libby Kleine 2005 National Council of Churches of
Christ in the USAPrinted on recycled paper using soy-based
inks.Eco-Justice ProgramsNational Council of Churches USA110
Maryland Avenue, NE, Suite 108Washington, DC 20002(202)
544-2350www.nccecojustice.org
Table of Contents Introduction Why Churches Care About the Bay
Water: A Source of Life Creation in the Chesapeake Chesapeake
Congregational Life Vision Chesapeake Covenant Congregations
Worship Planning a Creation Care Service Worship and Water Themes A
Creation Season Institutional Life I. II. III. IV. V. VI. VII.
Reduce Waste and Consumerism Reduce and Eliminate Toxics and
Pesticides Create Incentives for Transportation Alternatives
Control Stormwater and Green the Landscape Conserve Water Conserve
Energy and Save on Costs Green Building and Remodeling Education
and Outreach Congregation Education Community, National, and Global
Outreach Conclusion Curriculum: Sacred Waters Appendix Sample Water
Regional Training Agenda Worship Resources I. Hymns and Other Songs
II. Additional Sermon Starters III. Worship and Liturgical
Resources How to Host a Local or Regional Training Event 1 2 4 5 8
8 9 9 9 10 11 12 12 14 15 15 18 19 19 21 21 23 25 26 I II XI
S T E WA R D S O F T H E B AY 1 Introduction he purpose of this
Stewards of the T Bay guide is to provide Christian com- munities
living in the Chesapeake Bay region with a simple manual that
suggests ways to contribute to the protection of the Bay. The
everyday choices we makewhether in our homes, at our places of
work, or within our churcheshave a profound influence on the health
of the natural communities in which we live. In this guide we
provide tips and resourcesThe everyday choices to enable your
congregation to discuss what wisewe makewhether in choices and
positive actions you can make to help restore the Bay for this
generation and our homes, at our those to come. places of work,
orwithin our churches As you learn more, we hope that youll
feelhave a profound influ- empowered to take simple actions that
make meaningful changes for Gods creation.ence on the health ofthe
natural communi-ties in which we live.
S T E WA R D S O F T H E B AY 2Why Churches Care About the
Bay:Theological and Ethical Foundations ods creation is wonderfully
complex, interdepend-G The best place to begin to appreciate the
importance of ent, and beautiful. The gifts of creation and the
water is with the creation stories themselves. To understand
responsibility of its stewardship were given to all of the stories,
it is important to remember that the ancient writ-humanity so that
each would have access to its bounties. As ers did not have a
concept of infinite space as we do. And,Gods people, we are called
to this taskrespectfully taking the writer had to accommodate
his/her experience of watercare of Gods creation for its own sake,
so that present and coming from the sky in the form of rain, being
on the sur-future generations may live on it and enjoy all of its
fruits. face of the land in the form of seas and rivers, and avail-
able from under the ground from wells.Those wondrous pictures of
the earth from outer spaceoffer a particularly good place to start
to understand In the first chapter of Genesis, God first
separatesthe importance of Gods gift of water. What the waters into
those from above and thosestrikes one in looking at those pictures
is not from below by forming a solid dome calledthe land masses,
but the abundance of water. As Gods the sky. Then, God creates the
earth out ofFrom outer space, one can see clearly that the waters.
Only after the water is in people, we areearth is a blue planet a
water planet. place does God put vegetation, animals called to this
and other creatures on the earth.Throughout both the Hebrew Bible
taskrespectfully Genesis 1:20 teaches that creationand the New
Testament, water plays literally comes out of the waters. taking
care of Godsa significant role in helping us From the beginning,
all of cre-understand the nature of God, creation for its own sake,
ation is dependent on the gift ofGods purposes in the world and so
that present and future water. This ancient narrative isour
relationship with God. One uncannily similar to modern generations
may live onneed only think of the crossing of understanding.
Science confirmsthe Red Sea, Jesus baptism in the it and enjoy all
of its that life as we know it first arose inJordan River, the
woman at the well, fruits. the water, and it goes without sayingand
Jesus describing himself as living that without water, life on
earth can notwater. In fact, the Bible includes over 500 be
sustained.references to the word water and countlessmore on
water-related subjects, like rivers, rain, seas, For five days, God
creates and creates. After eachfloods and storms. Many of the main
water themes that run challenging day of creation, God stops and
acknowledgesthrough the Bible include creation, sustenance,
purification that it is indeed good. This declaration reminds us
thatand transformation and begin to tell us about God and the even
before humans were created, God loved and valued cre-relationship
God would like us to have with the waters God ation for its own
sake. Regardless of how small the creature,created. God recognized
its value before even before humankind.
S T E WA R D S O F T H E B AY 3Why Churches Care About the
BayAnd we know from our own experience that, indeed the cre- waters
belong to God and God alone. In the ancient Nearation is good. We
all enjoy a blue sky and the green buds of Eastern world the word
image was understood as onesspring. We love the feel of cool water
on our skin on a hot representative and often used for a king
standing in for, orsummer day, the glowing colors of fall and the
gleam of sun- representing, a god. The human role, therefore, is to
standshine on snow in winter. We are sometimes almost over- in for
the Creator, to represent Gods creative purposes income at the
myriad stars shining on a clear night, and love the world, not
humanitys. As images of God, we are calledto see the full moon
lighting up the nighttime world with its to love, value, and
sustain the waters of the world just aspearly glow. We marvel at
the mysteries of migrating birds God does.and butterflies and
fishsuch as the shad who return toChesapeake streams each spring.
We are enchanted by the The word dominion is understood in the same
vein.attentiveness of a mother bird to her chicks and charmed by
Dominion is not domination. Dominion is exercised inthe beauty of
wildflowers in the spring. We are often left recognition of Gods
sovereignty over earth. We are givenspeechless by the splendor of a
sunset, or the fury of a thun- the privilege of joining God in the
care-taking of the waters.derstorm, or the power of falling water.
We enjoy the fruits If we are looking at a model of how to
establish leadershipof summer and the harvest in the fall, the
fresh fish, crabs in creation, we need look no further than Jesus
who taughtand oysters that are pulled from our waters. Yes, the
Earth- us to lead by being servants.-and the whole universe--is
good. God made it that way. In the creation story, on the seventh
day God rested. AOn the sixth day, God creates both men and women
in special kind of rest; the Hebrews called it menuha. In thisGods
own image and gives humans dominion over the menuha, God enjoyed
all that had been created, and Godearth (Genesis 1:27-28). The
combination of having been continues to invite humans to enter into
this deep enjoy-created in Gods image as well as being given
dominion over ment. To fulfill our ministry, it is important to
take timethe earth has often been misinterpreted as giving humanity
apart, time for Sabbath rest.absolute right to use and exploit
creation for its own purpos-es. What the Scripture actually says is
that the earth and its Explore more water theology by conducting an
adult education or Sunday school class. See the curriculum located
in this Toolkit for suggestions.
S T E WA R D S O F T H E B AY 4Water: A Source of Life t 4,480
square miles, the Chesapeake Bay is theA U SE AND POLLUTION largest
estuary in the U.S, and supports the Together, agriculture and
industrial practices claim the livelihoods of thousands in the
maritime indus- highest rates of use of freshwater resources. As
industrial andtry from fishermen and packing house employees to
agricultural use has increased, as well as residential
development,recreational enthusiasts. For generations, the people
living so has pollution. Excessive uses of pesticides and
fertilizers havein the six state region have come to depend on the
Bay a negative effect on water stores, and ultimately on both
humanand its riches to provide them economic opportunities, and
ecosystem health. For example, excessive use of fertilizerssuch as
the commercial fishing of seafood. contributes to excess nitrate
production in water systems, which has been shown to cause infant
brain damage and, in someF RESHWATER : S CARCITY AND J USTICE
cases, death. In the United States, more than 40 million
peopleFreshwater is one of Gods most precious gifts and is vital
take their drinking water from systems that exceed health-basedas
the life support of the planet, its ecosystems, and its standards.
Even the Chesapeake Bay, for instance, is on theinhabitants. While
so important in sustaining life, less Environmental Protection
Agencys dirty waters list. Now fac-than one percent of the worlds
freshwater is available for ing a range of threatsfrom pollution to
shellfish diseasehuman use, whether for agriculture, drinking and
house- many sections of the Bay are unsafe for fishing.hold use,
transportation or energy production. Freshwateris in high demand
and the competition is ever increasing U NSUSTAINABLE USEas overuse
and water quality issues continually threaten Groundwater resources
are used by about one-third of theexisting supplies. worlds people.
Excessive withdrawalsextraction of groundwa- ter at a rate greater
than can be naturally rechargedare occur-Freshwater ecosystems come
in many forms and include ring across nearly every continent. This
unsustainable use ofall inland bodies of water, includingamong
others groundwater also increases the risk of secondary effects
such aslakes, rivers, and wetlands. These ecosystems, also known
land subsidence and saltwater intrusion. Increased and expan-as
watersheds or catchments, are globally threatened by sive
urbanization, in addition to overuse, threatens
groundwaterunsustainable land use and water management. recharge
rates. In the Chesapeake Bay region the population is expected to
grow by 43 percent between 1990 and 2020, put-These fragile
freshwater ecosystems, which make up the ting enormous pressure on
its groundwater resources.larger Chesapeake Bay watershed, face a
broad range ofthreats. These include the direct impacts of dams,
over- Good water management plays a vital role in realizing the
abun-fishing, pollution, stream channelization, water with- dance
of the Earths freshwater supply. Communities, in bothdrawals and
diversions, as well as the indirect conse- the developed and
developing world, must take seriously thequences of terrestrial
activities such as logging, agricul- need to use and protect this
life giving and sustaining resourceture, industry, infrastructure
development, and mining. for todays inhabitants and future
generations.
| S T E WA R D S O F T H E B AY 5Creation in the Chesapeake
coming these qualities and today the Bay is not in good he
Chesapeake Bay, beloved by all who live on itsT shores, is the
conjoined estuary of several major rivers, about 150 smaller
rivers, and the countless tributariesthat feed them. The
Susquehanna, the Potomac, the York, health. Its beautifully
complicated web of life requires a del- icate balance of oxygen,
nutrients (notably nitrogen and phosphorus), plants, animals,
bottom feeders, and predators. This balance has been upset because
of industrialization,and the James are the largest rivers that flow
into the bay. urbanization, and population growth across the
watershed.They drain freshwater from an areaits watershed, more
Large expanses of forest were cleared to make way for agri-than
64,000 square miles of landeast of the Appalachian cultural land.
And intensive agricultural practiceswhileMountains that extends
from central New York to central successful in providing
inexpensive foodhave also con-Virginia and includes parts of six
states: Delaware, tributed to the pollution of the rivers that, in
turn, feed theMaryland, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West
Bay. In recent years, as the population of the region
contin-Virginia and all of the District of Columbia. A vast volume
ues to boom, forest and agricultural land give way to urbanof
freshwater flows into the Bay and mixes with saltwater and suburban
development.from the Atlantic Ocean. From the tidal areas on all
riversto the southern mouth of the Bay, there is a gradient of
salin-ity, which fluctuates across the seasons.The Bay was formed
when, following the last ice age, sealevel rose, drowning the
valley of what we now call theSusquehanna River. This ancient
channel of the river C H E S A P E A K E B AY FA C T Sremains at
the bottom of the baya deep channel that per-mits ocean-going
vessels to travel north and south. On either Area 4480 sq.
milesside are wide stretches of shallow water on what were the
North-South Length 200 milesbanks of the ancient waterway. Width at
widest point 35 milesIts shoreline is enormously convoluted and
indented with Shoreline 11,600 milesnumerous creeks, bays, rivers,
and inlets that provide shallow Average depth 21 feetwater and
sheltered habitat for the Bays rich, though threat- Area where
depth isened, diversity of wildlife. less than 6 feet 700,000 acres
Volume of water 18 trillion gallonsThese three factorsthe salinity
gradient, the indentedshoreline, and the wide stretches of shallow
waterare what Average volume of watergive the Chesapeake its
extraordinary qualities, and expan- from Susquehanna River 19
million gal./min.sive diversity of habitat. Sadly, however,
pollution is over-
| S T E WA R D S O F T H E B AY 6 Creation in the ChesapeakeTwo
main problems wreak havoc below the surface of Non-point sources,
on the other hand, are much more dif-the Bay: shellfish disease and
excessive nutrient flow. ficult to control. Agriculture, one of the
major non-pointIn the first half of the 20th century, two to four
sources, begins on land with nitrogen-rich animalmillion bushels of
oysters were harvested each manure, which, if improperly applied as
fertilizer oryear (15 million bushels in 1884). Since the dumped as
waste, can release large amounts ofintroduction of non-native
oysters in the nitrogen into surface water that will
ultimately1950s, which brought viral disease, oyster LIFE IN THE
BAY end up in the Bay. Excess nutrients, when leftpopulations are
in steady decline and unabsorbed, also can flow through
ground-reached a low of only 25,000 harvested SPECIES water,
polluting rivers and streams. Septicbushels in 2003. This loss of
oysters plants : 2,700 tanks can have a similar effect, although to
ahas not only hurt the seafood industry, lesser degree, as the
nitrogenous waste seepsbut also reduced the filtration of algae fin
fish : 348 into the groundwater and horizontally trav-from Bay
waters, a natural ecological shell fish : 173 erses soil layers
until it enters a stream.function the shellfish provide. Without
waterfowl : 29this free ecosystem service, the algae Ecosystems
have ways of dealing with some ofreduce water clarity and coat the
leaves of these problems. For example, if rainwater
collectssubaquatic vegetation, screening out the light in a
freshwater wetland or infiltrates into the ground,they need for
photosynthesis and oxygenation. When much of the pollutants it
contains can be absorbed, metab-extensive beds of vegetation are
lost, fish, crabs, and other olized by bacteria or plants, or
filtered out. Because ofmarine organisms lose their sheltering
habitats. And when expansive development, however, we now have huge
areas ofthe algae die, bacteria begin to break down their dead tis-
impervious surfacesroads, parking lots, roofs, drive-sues, using up
an already waning supply of oxygen. waysthat prevent water from
infiltrating the soil. The practice has been to channel surface
water off these surfacesExcess nutrients, particularly nitrogen and
phosphorus, also into storm drains that too often deliver
thepromote the growth of algae. These nutrients come from water
straight into streams and rivers withboth point and non-point
sources. A point source, such as the no filtration or cleansing
action tooutflow from a sewage plant or factory, or non-point
remove the oil and other pollutantssourcescontamination from a
combination of unidenti- that flow off the surface. In timesfied
sourcessuch as agricultural and urban runoff. of heavy rain, storms
pour more water into streams thanPoint source pollution is
relatively easy to identify and to they are naturally designed
POPULATIONdeal with as regulations such as the Clean Water Act give
the to accommodate. Stream GROWTH IN THEgovernment the authority to
compel industries and factories beds wash out; the WATERSHEDto stop
discharging polluted water. While there has been scouring action of
theconsiderable progress in industrial pollutant regulation, excess
water turning 1900:sewage treatment plants are in many cases still
discharging the beds into gullies. 5,000,000 peopleexcessive
quantities of nitrogen into the Bay. For example, in Sediment and
debris2002 10.4 million pounds of nitrogen were released in washes
out, burying 2000:Maryland alone. With new sources of funding, the
intro- native plant life and 15,000,000 peopleduction of modern
technology for all sewage treatment churning downstream waterplants
is becoming feasible and this discharge may be signif- in the
rivers and Bay. In othericantly reduced in coming years. cases,
storm drains feed into public
| S T E WA R D S O F T H E B AY 7 Creation in the
Chesapeakewastewater treatment plants, increasing the cost of
operating OUR CALL FOR THE BAYthe plants and sometimes leading to
serious overload during We are not asked to go out and rid the
world of its problemsrainy weather. Newer regulations and designs
require the use in a single day. Serving on the mission field does
not alwaysof stormwater ponds that treat not only volume but water
mean traveling to remote foreign villages to preach thequality,
thus reducing the detrimental effects of stormwater Gospel. Many of
us can serve, preach, and minister to oth-from impervious surfaces.
ers from our own backyards. It is important that congrega- tions
come together to do these things, and that they beginAll of these
issues involving groundwater and streams feed- with their own
houses of worship. Small changes in build-ing pollutants into the
bay lead to serious Bay water quality ings can make a difference in
the environment.problems. The most extreme results are summer dead
Congregations can serve as a witness to their neighbors, tozones,
where the water is devoid of oxygen and no longer other churches,
to the community, and to the governmentcapable of sustaining life.
In the summer of 2005, there was of the responsibility humans have
to protect and conservea dead zone including 36 percent of the area
of the Bay, the Gods creation.largest ever recorded. When God
created humans, we were given stewardship overRecent State of the
Bay Reports indicate that pollution con- the Earth and the
creatures and plants that fill it. Creationtinues to degrade the
Bay, that the balance of the Bays was made in its entirety to work
together in a symbiotic rela-ecosystem is deeply disrupted, and
that our challenge to re- tionship, making each ecosystem reliant
on other ecosys-create a saved Bay is great. tems. Riparian
habitats depend on the weather to sustain their environment.
Creatures on the land side of the shore-While we face an uphill
battle for the Bay, these problems line need creatures of the water
to maintain the nutrients inare not insurmountable. If weas
individuals, as communi- that water, and keep life moving, often
times providing foodties, as congregations, and as votersare
committed to for the animals on the land. Trees provide the oxygen
neces-work together, we can, ultimately, mitigate these threats and
sary for human life. Delicate ecosystems are constantlyrestore
beauty and ecological integrity to the Bay. threatened by a world
too concerned with growth, indus- tries, technology, and
consumption. We must do what weFor more information about the
Chesapeake Bay and can to protect all Gods creatures, great and
small, andits ecology: ensure that technological and industrial
progress do not lead www.cbf.org to dissipation of these important
habitats and systems. www.alliancechesbay.org www.bayjournal.com
www.chesapeakebay.net www.umces.edu Every year, more than 1,000,000
waterfowl overwinter along the Chesapeake Bay.
S T E WA R D S O F T H E B AY 8Chesapeake Congregational LifeV
ISION erhaps your congregation has already formed a cre- If your
denomination has a statement, explore withP ation awareness group
(a committee or task force dedicated to caring for Gods creation)
or you are justbeginning to explore how your congregation can
become your group the prospect of creating a more specific vision
for your congregation. If your denomination does not have a
statement,better stewards of Gods creation. Either way, a visionin
explore with your group creating an original vision forthe form of
strategic plans, a mission statement, or state- your
congregation.ments of purposeis a great place to begin and will,
ulti-mately, help to guide your congregation to develop and live If
your congregation doesnt have an existing creation carea Chesapeake
congregational lifestyle. The process of com- group, start
recruiting others for this environmental min-posing a vision will
likely help your group better understand istry. Identify an
interested group of people usingits shared ideals and goals.
announcements, church bulletins, and word of mouth. Make sure you
get the approval and involvement fromIf you are just getting
started, here are some tips for where your clergy and other key
church leaders including thoseto begin: individuals who deal with
building and grounds. Prayer can be a helpful spiritual tool.
Beginning activities Take an inventory of time, talent, and
interest once you with prayer, using prayer as a problem-solving
method, have established a group. and sharing prayers of
thanksgiving for accomplishments With your congregational vision in
mind, agree on a can build a strong ministry. mission for your
creation care group. See if your denomination has a statement or
policy about Create an action plan and develop measurable objec-
caring for creation. Visit www.nccecojustice.org for a list tives
and goals for how to achieve your vision. of policy statements and
denominational contacts. Remember that every journey starts with a
single step. Small projects that are successful are great ways to
get an action plan off the ground. Meeting Management Meetings
should be conducted on a regular basis and be soul-nourishing,
concise and enjoyable. If possible, distribute an agenda ahead of
time and assign a timekeeper if needed. Ensuring time for personal
sharing and prayer, along with fellowship time and refreshments
will help strengthen the ministry. Remember to keep a positive
atmosphere.
S T E WA R D S O F T H E B AY 9 Chesapeake Congregational LifeC
HESAPEAKE C OVENANT C ONGREGATIONS P LANNING A C REATION C ARE
SERVICEJoin other churches in the Chesapeake Bay watershed region
While important to plan for special occasions (e.g., Earthas a part
of the Chesapeake Covenant Congregation pro- Day, the Rogation
Days, or Sundays in a Creationgram. Each governing body of a
participating congregation Seasona series of worship services in
the fall intentionally focused on Creation themes), it is equally
valuable to inte-makes a promise that they will engage in
ecological min- grate the dimension of Creation in your
congregationsistries to help protect the Chesapeake Bay. The
covenant worship throughout the year. In planning, look at all
theincludes a commitment to environmentally focused wor- elements
of worship: Scripture, psalmody, music, preaching,ship, education,
lifestyle change, and involvement in the prayers (including
litanies), and acts of congregational offer-global, national, and
local communities. Congregations are ing and dedication, as well as
the forms for opening (call toencouraged to implement principles
from all four categories worship) and closing (benediction).to
reflect the holistic nature of the commitment to careof the
Earthspecifically to care of the Chesapeake. Scriptures First,
consider the Scripture passages you wish toTo learn more about this
program, or how you use. Does your congregation typically follow
acan obtain help for getting started, contact: Church-year
lectionary or do you have the free- TIPS FOR dom to substitute your
choices for one orNCC, Eco-Justice Programs WORSHIP: more of the
readings? If can choose the110 Maryland Ave., NE, Suite
108,Washington, DC 20002 Not only hear the readings, select those
that highlight a special theme, perhaps one that seems call from
God andTo become a Chesapeake Covenant appropriate both to the time
of year affirm the commitment of and to special concerns of your
con-Congregation, fill out the covenant the Covenant, but also
gregationfor example, a spring fairform (in the Appendix) andreturn
to: undertake ongoing study of or an autumn harvest festival.
TheseNCC, Eco-Justice Programs the issues around water use readings
do not need to be specifi-110 Maryland Ave., NE, Suite and
preservation in the cally about nature but may suggest108,
Washington, DC 20002 Chesapeake region. Have interesting
interconnections, for worship proclaim the example, how God
nurtures and glory of God in waters life and quenches our
thirst,WORSHIP both physically and spiritually. In addi-
Creation.Worship is an essential component of tion, you might
consider supportingcaring for Gods creation. It is the place
Scripture with writings from theologians, scientists,
environmentalists, and poets. Forwhere together we listen for Gods
call and accept examples of water-related worship themes,
includingour part of the covenant with the Holy. In our praises we
Scripture and sermon suggestions, see Worship and Waterrejoice in
the beauty and wonder of creation, sense Gods Theme on page
10.enlivening presence in our midst, and find our souls fedwith the
wisdom and courage that we will need to be faith- Musicful. The
spirit of our worship will flow into our action and Music is
another pathway to awakening our souls to themake it fruitful. And
it is also the place where we offer back beauty of Gods Earth and
our covenant with God and Godsto the Holy what we have ventured,
that it may be gathered creation. There are many wonderful hymns
and anthemsinto Gods promised peace. extolling the glory of Gods
creation. It is helpful to include some new music along with the
familiar. Metrical settings of psalms are included in many hymnals
and are easy to sing.
S T E WA R D S O F T H E B AY 1 0 Chesapeake Congregational
LifeA moving testimony to our unity with the powers of nature,
intercessions and thanksgivings. Litanies may be used effec-St.
Francis Canticle of the Sun, with its invocation of tively, noting
the particular concerns of the congregation.Brother Sun and Sister
Moon, Sister Water, and Prayers can be wide-ranging, so as to
include concerns forBrother Fire, invites us to join our voices
with their prais- justice, for church leadership, for the oppressed
and suffer-es. It has been adapted for easy metrical hymn singing.
ing, as well as for specific ecological petitions. This breadth is
a good context for connecting this particular gatheringThere are
also songs (canticles) based directly on Scriptural with the wider
outreach of the Church.texts, for example, A Song of Creation
(Benedicite omniaopera domini based on The Song of the Three Young
Men Offering[additions to Daniel] verses 35-65) and The First Song
of In a Caring for Creation service, there can be opportunity
toIsaiah (Isaiah 12:2-6), which includes such verses as involve the
people in offering gifts from Gods creation.Therefore you shall
draw water with rejoicing from the During the offering, congregants
can be asked to bringsprings of salvation. stones from their local
streams and waterways. In the fall, they can offer autumn leaves,
blades of wetland or beachOther sounds grass. What we offer is a
token of our concern for the renew-You can also introduce sounds of
nature at certain times. ing of Gods creation.Many CDs are
available with sounds of waterfalls, or waves,songs of birds, or
wind in the trees, etc. These may be usedas background for a time
of prayer or reflection, or for a WORSHIP AND WATER THEMESprelude.
Wash and be CleanPreaching Theme: Healing WatersBy including
Creation themes, ministers can illuminate the Pools and streams
have healing gifts for those who come insacredness of nature and
our responsibility, as Gods people, faith, with openness of heart
and with respect for the pow-as stewards of Gods gift. For example,
water is the Creators ers of nature. Naaman almost missed his
promised healinggift for the entire world to share and it is
imperative that we because of his pride and spiritual blindness.
Likewise, theensure its just distribution and preserve its quality
and puri- man at the Pool of Siloam was invited to set aside his
anxi-ty. Through Gods word, a preacher may call us to a simpler
eties and doubts and to receive the healing power of theChristian
lifestyle in which our delight shifts away from water simply
through Jesus word. Will our ownconsumer-driven goods toward the
wonders of the universe. Chesapeake Bay and the streams that feed
it continue to heal us if should we fail to see Gods healing
presence inPreachers can reflect on how Caring for Creation is an
essen- them? How can we renew our own body and soul by treat-tial
part of the ministry of the Church. In the New ing the Bay with
respect?Testament, the Cosmic Christ is the Center of the
universeand promises that our final home will be in a transfigured
Readings:cosmos. Thus, it can be taught, that to care for rivers, 2
Kings 114 (Naaman and Elisha)streams, and forests is essential to
prepare, in the Spirit of Psalm 84: 47God, for our ultimate destiny
(Cf. Colossians 1:1-29 and John 5: 19 (1015) (Healing at Pool of
Siloam)Revelation 21; Isaiah 66.) Alternative contemporary reading:
The Hidden Messages of Water by Masaru Emoto (e.g., Water isPrayers
the life flow of majestic nature [pg. 38] or quote fromIt is
helpful to allow places for congregational participation Joan S.
Davis of Zurich Technical University, The in the call to worship,
perhaps, and also in the general important thing is that we recover
our respect for water. [p. 63].)
S T E WA R D S O F T H E B AY 1 1 Chesapeake Congregational
LifeWade in the Water Why do you spend your money for that which
isTheme: The WombWaters of New Life and Vision not bread? (Isaiah
55: 1)C.S. Lewis in The Four Loves says that he cannot ever Theme:
Returning to the true waters of lifeimagine sensing the meaning of
Gods glory without the God cries out to an Israel whose heart is
set on comfort andmagnificence of waterfalls. For this very reason,
we are in power: Ho, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters
.desperate need of recovering our intimacy with the Earth. Why do
you spend your money for that which is not bread?For many of us,
this will call for deep changea cultural This speaks directly to
the sickness at the heart of our cul-rebirth. Ezekiel witnesses
Gods promise to a people who ture today. We have become addicted to
the ever-increasinghave lost their way the sprinkling of clean
water and the cornucopia of consumer goods. What is alarming is the
cen-gift of a new heart, a heart of flesh to replace their hearts
tral place we give them in our lives and hearts. We were bornof
stone. And Jesus tells well-born Nicodemus that being to find our
deepest joys in Gods creation and to be its voiceof good family is
not enough: You must be born from of thanksgiving as we offer it
back in praise. The rhythms ofabove of water and the Spirit. Are we
ready to be born the Earth, the land and the waters, are to be our
guide andagain in our relation to creation, to become indeed broth-
the touchstone of the patterns of our living, our joys, anders and
sisters of all God has made? Can we use this new our hopes. Can we
find our way back to these waters ofrelationship to be better
stewards of the Bay? life? Jesus said to the Samaritan woman beside
Jacobs well, Readings: If you knew who it is who is saying to you,
Give me a Ezekiel 36: 2428 drink, you would have asked him and he
would have given Psalm 46 you living water. Surely it is the
mission of the Church John 3: 110 today to attend to the lands and
waters, their purity and their beauty, and to equip us as Gods
saints to call into being the renewed life of the Chesapeake Bay
and, with itsLaunch out into the Deep waters, the new and vibrant
life of our souls.Theme: Meeting God afresh in the Deep WatersDeep
waters call for a trusting heart and invite adventure Readings:into
the unknown. The disciples of Jesus at the shores of Old Testament,
Isaiah 55: 13, 69 (Come to theLake Gennesaret had fished all night
and caught nothing, waters)yet Jesus bids them to launch anew, this
time trusting Psalm 42: 13, 68themselves to the deep waters. And
something wonderful John 4: 115 (The woman at Jacobs Well)happened!
Likewise Jacob at the Ford of Jabbok was invit-ed to trust. Afraid
of meeting his brother, he wrestled all A C REATION S EASONnight
with God and was powerfully transformed. Can the The Creation
Season is a period of three to six weeks, usuallywaters of the Bay
be for us a place of transformation, as we in the fall and often
starting near St. Francis Day (Octobermove deeply into the unknown
rapids of advocacy for 4), when a congregation agrees to focus its
worship andclean water, the elimination of agricultural run-off,
and education on themes related to Gods Creation.(hopefully)
creative dialogue between developers, farmers,and legislators for a
restored Chesapeake? In this new rela- The consecutive Sunday
themes may be based on thetionship with creation, God will meet us
and our nets will elements of earth, air, fire, and water, or
aspects of our call tobe full. simple living, or the ways Gods love
in nature interacts with Readings: our own spiritual growth.
Whatever we choose, however, it Old Testament, Genesis 32: 2230
needs to be connected with Scripture and often dovetail with Psalm:
Psalm 36: 510 assigned readings in the lectionary. For more
information on Luke 5: 111 creation season materials visit
www.seasonofcreation.com.
S T E WA R D S O F T H E B AY 1 2Institutional Life aring for
creation begins at homeand, this case, in I. R EDUCEC WASTE AND
CONSUMERISM our church home. How we care for our church prop- Why?
erty can speak to how we regard our place on the Our everyday
choicesboth at home and at churchaboutEarth. Recognizing that we
are part of the complex web of the products we use and discard have
a great impact on cre-creation, not separate from it, not above it,
but embedded ation. The more we think about what is behind our pur-
in it, causes us to treat it lovingly. Loving God and loving chased
goodsWhere did this product come from? Whatour neighbor includes
caring for the Earth that God has impact does throwing this away
have on the environment?created. We can start with the patch of
earth that is our church the more likely we will make wise choices
about what we useproperty. and buy. For example, U.S. office paper
consumption isWithin the church and its surrounding grounds, some
simple excessivein 1999, roughly 63 pounds a month perchanges can
be implemented to make our sacred spaces health- American!driven
mostly by printer and copier paper con-ier and more
environmentally-friendly. Our worship facilities sumption. By
choosing to reduce our use of paper, bydo impact Gods creation, and
so it is our obligation to reduce reusing the paper we dont
completely use, and by recyclingthis burden on the Earth and create
more sustainable spaces. the paper that we do use, we can make a
significant dent inWe can also encourage our congregational members
to choose our own contribution to waste production. Reducing
wasteto live in a way that nurtures the world in which we live. and
recycling reduces air and water pollution and the need for landfill
spaceall good acts of responsible creation stew-Our church
buildings were built to the glory of God, the serv- ardship.ice of
humanity and the world, and the potential of the Spirit.It is
inside these structures that we celebrate Creation and theCreator.
And we look to our houses of worship and their spir- DONT FORGET
CHURCH OFFICESitual centers for guidance. What happens within in
our con- Look for ways to close the loop ongregations can have a
positive ripple effect across the region as paper
recycling:homeowners, businesspeople, government workers and
othershelp their own buildings begin to emulate the ethical example
1) buy recycled paperset by their church. 2) reuse unused or
partially used paperThe key elements of a green church life 3) set
printers to print on both sides of the I. Reduce waste paper II.
Reduce and eliminate toxics 4) recycle fully used paper. Producing
virgin III. Create incentives for transportation alternatives paper
requires a chlorine bleaching process IV. Control stormwater and
green the landscape that releases the carcinogenic chemical dioxin
V. Conserve water and other toxics. Purchase the highest percent-
VI. Conserve energy and use green power age of post-consumer waste,
process chlorine- VII. Purchase and invest responsibly free paper
possible.
S T E WA R D S O F T H E B AY 1 4 Institutional LifeWhat can we
do? What can we do?Reduce and reuse We can improve human health and
lessen adverse envi-Our churches can live more lightly by simply
reducing ronmental impacts by using non-toxic (or green)use,
including the use of disposable kitchen and din- Hand- cleaning
products in our houses of worship and lim-ing products. For church
meetings and potlucks, pick iting or eliminating the use of
pesticides on ourconsider asking people to bring their own dishes
weeds church lawns. Non-toxic cleaning products canand silverware.
You might even request that instead of be found locally at some
national groceryparishioners donate their unused dishware to
spraying them; chains, local food cooperatives, and naturalthe
church, which will provide reusable dishes food stores.for most
events. Set traps to control rodents; Try using alternative methods
of pest controlRecycle mulch to reduceEstablish a recycling program
at church. If min- first. If your problem is persistent and you do
weedimal recycling already exists, look into ways to decide that
pesticides and weed killers are theramp up your recycling program.
Are recycling recep- best options, be sure that you are aware of
the dan-tacles conveniently located? Do you know what recyclables
gers they pose. Carefully read all labels, and take theyour
municipal recycling will accept? Are bins clearly proper
precautions to ensure limited human contact withmarked? Are office
goods like used cell phones, computers, recently treated areas.and
toner cartridges being recycled? Make smart institutional purchases
If you are troubled by insects,Your environmental group could
consider meeting with the think twice before blasting themchurch
committees who make institutional purchases to dis- with
insecticides. Insecticides arecuss making better choices, such as
avoiding disposables and non-discriminatorythey kill all insects.
Theexcess packaging and buying recycled products. If dispos- fact
is that the majority of insects are benefi-able cups and plates are
unavoidable, make sure that they are cial to the environment: they
provide food forbiodegradable (e.g., not Styrofoam or plastic).
Your congre- birds, they pollinate flowers. Some insectsgation can
also team up with other congregations to buyenvironmentally
friendly items together to save money serve to control other
insects, and in a healthythrough bulk purchasing. When purchasing
produce farm system, they all live in balance. If you hope
toproducts, buy locally if in season. This supports our local have
songbirds surrounding your church, youagricultural industry and
saves the energy to transport food need to have insects for them to
eat. So,purchased from faraway places. understand that it is not
necessary or desirable to get rid of all insects. Be sure you are
not doing more harm than good. Think control, notII. R EDUCE AND
ELIMINATE TOXICS AND elimination.PESTICIDESWhy?Like our homes, our
churches can be a hidden source of tox- Where can we learn
more?ics. Many of the products we find in the church have toxic The
Green Guide provides lists andsubstances, which have the potential
to cause a variety of recommendations about green productsavoidable
harms, ranging from upset stomachs to irritated purchasing at
www.thegreenguide.com.skin to developmental disorders and even to
cancers.
S T E WA R D S O F T H E B AY 1 5 Institutional Life For
institutional purchasing of green cleaners, visit the Center for a
New American Dreams institutional Calculate your ecological
footprint. purchasing web site at www.newdream.org/procure. Discuss
the impact of our everyday Download the specific church purchasing
guide at choices after calculating how much
www.newdream.org/publications/purchguide.pdf. nature your own
lifestyle requires. An ecological footprint estimates how Consult
the Pesticide Action Network of North Americas Pesticide Advisor
for chemical-free much productive land and water you need
alternatives at www.panna.org to support what you use and what you
dis- card. You might be surprised how much For more information on
reducing exposure to your driving habits contribute to how large
toxins in your church, download your footprint is. For a simple
quiz, see www.epa.gov/OPPTpubs/Cit_Guide/citguide.pdf
www.myfootprint.orgIII. C REATE INCENTIVES FORTRANSPORTATION
ALTERNATIVES Participate in Car Sharing Instead of purchasing a new
church vehicle, consider joiningWhy? a car sharing program like
Zipcar. Having access to a carThe manufacture and, more important,
the use of personal only when you need it could save your church in
mainte-vehicles cause more environmental damageespecially air
nance, gas, and insurance costs, and will promote goodwillpollution
and global warmingthan any other single con- for all creation.sumer
spending category. Our cars and light trucks are Use Public
Transportationresponsible for almost a quarter of annual U.S.
carbon diox- If available, encourage members of the congregation to
useide emissions, the main greenhouse gas. So driving a car may
public transportation.be the single most polluting activity that
most of us do. Asidefrom important activities such as driving more
fuel efficient Where can we learn more?cars, with modest change
your congregation can make imme- Join the discussion about the
moral issue of transporta-diate impact by giving cars a break on
Sunday. tion, at www.whatwouldJesusdrive.org. The Union of
Concerned Scientists has a comprehen-What can we do? sive
discussion of vehicle contributions on the adversePost a carpooling
board effects of the U.S. transportation system. SeeEncourage
parishioners to try carpooling to church together.
www.ucsusa.org.This will not only save gas and reduce individual
car emis-sions, but it also provides opportunities for church
membersto spend some time in fellowship with one another. IV. C
ONTROL S TORMWATER AND GREEN THEHold a Ride Your Bike to Church Day
LANDSCAPESponsor a bike riding or alternative transportation
day.Provide water for people as they arrive and set aside space for
Why?bike parking in the car lot. Take it a step further and teach a
Rain falling in forests or vegetative areas is mostly absorbedbike
safety class, including basic safety tips such as wearing into the
soil where it accumulates in the ground water, even-helmets,
displaying reflectors, and using arm turn signals. tually
replenishing streams and the Bay. Some rain, depend- ing on the
amount, may run off directly into streams and
S T E WA R D S O F T H E B AY 1 6 Institutional Lifelakes. With
increasing development, streets, parking lots and Education
Resource Center:buildings prevent water from its natural course
into ground http://www.arlingtonecho.org/rainbarrel.htm, or
con-water and streams, instead causing large amounts of water to
tact Darren Rickwood at 410-222-3822.be directed into storm drains
overloading the streams in the Lawnsarea, causing excessive
erosion, not to mention loss of ground Many churches are surrounded
by lawns. Lawns are envi-water recharging. According to the Center
for Watershed ronmentally bad for several reasons: they do not
provide aProtection, water quality begins to degrade when 10
percent diverse community of plants and animals that is mostof the
watershed contains impervious surfaces. For naturally appropriate
for a healthy environment; they are plantedproducing trout streams,
the threshold is an alarming 2 per- with non-native grasses that do
not provide shelter or foodcent. Conservation landscaping, or
BayScaping as its known for native animals or birds; they often
require the additionin the Chesapeake region, is a method of
landscaping proper- of extra water; they often require fertilizer
that can con-ties that promotes a healthy ecosystem. It encourages
and fos- tribute excess nutrient runoff into steams; cutting
lawnsters the natural relationships between plants, animals, and
generally demands consuming fossil fuel and adding pollu-weather,
making it a holistic approach to protecting and con- tants to the
air; and lawns are less permeable than plantedserving Gods
creation. To some degree, it mitigates the detri- areas. So seek
ways to reduce the area of lawn around themental effects of
impervious surfaces. church. Replant these areas with native
plants, trees, and shrubs that increase biodiversity and make a
positive contri-What can we do? bution to the integrity of the
environment.Manage stormwater Rain GardensBio-retention systems, or
rain gardens, try to replicate natural Rain gardens are gardens
built to contain and infiltrate rain-hydrologic function by holding
water from a storm event until fall from a specific area of
impervious surface for a typicalit can permeate the ground into the
groundwater system. rain event. Bio-retention systems are the same
in principle toThey are specifically designed to take in the
stormwater from rain gardens, but often imply a large area.an
impervious surface, like a rooftop, church parking lot, orstreet.
Layers of mulch absorb rain water and runoff, and Plant
nativesslowly release it to the underlayers of the soil and the
roots of Native plants are specifically adapted to the local
environ-trees, shrubs, and groundcover. The plants take up the
nutri- ment, and dont require additional water or fertilizers
thatents like nitrogen in the water, and microorganisms break
non-native plants may need to survive. In addition, nativedown some
of the pollutants, while others dissipate in the wildlife has
adapted to native plants, and depends on themground until they are
no longer a concentrated contaminant. for food and habitat to grow
and thrive. As the ChesapeakeProperly managing a churchs stormwater
can help protect region continues to be developed, reestablishing
native habi-Gods waterways and groundwater. tat on propertieslarge
and small in the Chesapeake water- shedis imperative to the
preservation of the ChesapeakeRain Barrels/Cisterns ecosystem.Rain
barrels and cisterns collect rainwater during storm eventsthat you
can use to water your landscape. This is an easy way For tips and
suggestions for bayscaping your property,to promote stormwater
management and reduce the unneces- and to learn about the benefits
specifically for thesary use of potable water. They can be
purchased at many gar- Chesapeake Bay region, visit www.cbf.org
andden centers and are also appropriate for use in the home.
www.alliancechesbay.org/pubs.cfm and http://www.cwp.org/In Anne
Arundel County, for example, you can purchaseRain Barrel kits and
built Rain Barrels from Arlington Echo
S T E WA R D S O F T H E B AY 1 7Institutional Life For more
information on native plants, use an excellentBUILD A SIMPLE RAIN
GARDEN free guide for gardeners and landscapers: Native Plants1.
Calculate rain garden size for Wildlife Habitat and Conservation
Landscaping, pub- Measure the footprint of the impervious lished by
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Also available surface. from many
environmental organizations, including Divide the area by 3. Adkins
ArboretumExample: (410) 634-2847, the Maryland Native Plant
Society15 feet x 15 feet = 225 square feet of impervious (301)
809-0139 and The Nature Conservancy,surface; 225/3 = 75 square feet
needed for rain (301) 897-8570garden Control pests2. Dig the rain
garden Pesticides tend to kill beneficial insects as well as the
both- Locate garden at least 10 feet from buildings to ersome ones,
keeping the system out of balance; they are avoid flooded
basements! Use an underground dangerous for pets and small children
in excessive and con- centrated quantities; and pesticides wash off
landscapes, pipe or gravel swale to direct water to rain killing
aquatic life in nearby streams. Integrated Pest garden. Management
(IPM) is a method of using native insects and Create a garden with
a 3 inch depth. Dig to plants to keep your property in balance and
control invasive a 6 inch depth, then add 3 inch of Leafgro or
insects and other pests. similar material. For information on using
integrated pest management, visit Use a water test to level garden:
Place a the Maryland Integrated Pest Management Resource Web hose
in the downspout, and adjust the soil to site at www.mdipm.umd.edu
level the garden and create channels. Manage fertilizer
applications3. Plant the garden The application of chemical
fertilizers, by individuals and Plant drought-tolerant plants
(shrubs, grasses, lawn-care companies, can substantially increase
the amount and perennials) that can tolerate standing in of
nitrogen in the system. Those nutrients that arent water for up to
24 hours. absorbed into the lawn are washed into local waterways.
Mulch the garden well. Good nutrient management starts with soil
testing. By Water the garden well, especially until the knowing the
composition of your soil, you can add the plants are established.
proper amounts of slow-release nutrients (such as compost),
allowing you to keep a flourishing garden and protect the health of
the Bay. SUCCESS STORY: Invasive ecoparties Maryland Presbyterian
Church in Towson, Maryland, embarked on a process of eliminating
alien invasive plants from its wooded suburban property. At monthly
ecoparties after Sunday worship, members get together to remove
unwanted plants. So far, theyve held ecoparties to focus on garlic
mustard, Ailanthus trees, English ivy, wineberry canes, and Devils
tear-thumb. The church is also restoring the landscape by planting
native plants.
S T E WA R D S O F T H E B AY 1 8 Institutional Life National
Fish and Wildlife Foundation (202) 857-0166Eliminate invasives or
the Maryland Department of Natural ResourcesNon-native, invasive
plants have done great harm to the Bay (410) 260-8540.ecosystema
major reason for the loss of native plants inour Bay landscapes.
Increased development, loss of forests V. C ONSERVE WATERand
habitat, and extensive use of lawn grasses, edge out Why?native
plants and make way for encroaching invasive species. Increases in
water consumption adds to stream, river, andWhile control of
invasive plants can be difficult and time Bay pollution and can
cause depletion of groundwater sup-consuming, your congregation can
band together to stop the plies. Waste water from toilets and sinks
either is disposed ofintrusion. Consider removing non-native,
invasive plants on in a septic system, affecting the quality of the
ground water,your grounds and replacing them with native plants.
Some or is disposed of in a municipal waster water treatment
plantcommon local invasive examples include multiflora rose, that
in most cases cannot remove all of the pollution beforeEnglish ivy,
Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus), kudzu, purple discharging it to a river
or the Bay. With little or no up-frontloosestrife, garlic mustard,
and Bradford pear. costs or adverse user impacts, your congregation
can imple- ment water-saving practices that can lower your utility
costsWhere can we learn more? and promote conservation landscaping
principles.For more information on how to promote water
conserva-tion at your church see: What can we do? An extensive list
of 282 exotic invasive plant species Run automatic dishwashers only
with full load. can be found at www.invasive.org Wash dishes by
hand with a basin of rinse water, rather For strategies for
removing invasive plants, see The than running water. Nature
Conservancys Invasive Species Initiative site at Water the grounds
in the evening to avoid rapid evapo- www.tncweeds.ucdavis.edu
ration. Fix leaking toilets and sinks. A leaking toilet can waste
For an excellent, free, concise manual for identifying 45,000
gallons of water in six months. and eradicating invasive species
see: Plant Invaders of Install water-saving toilets and low-flow
faucets. Mid-Atlantic Natural Areas, published by the National Park
Service/U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Available Where can we
learn more? from many environmental organizations, including The
visit http://maryland.earth911.org/master.asp SUCCESS STORY:
Congregational restoration The mens maintenance breakfast group at
Calvary United Methodist Church in Annapolis, Maryland, teamed up
with environmentally concerned members of the church to begin some
shoreline restoration along College Creek, a tributary of the
Chesapeake. They constructed a buffer planting along the creek to
absorb and filter runoff water between the impervious surface of
the parking lot and the creek. By planting this buffer, the group
not only improved the stormwater management of their property, but
they have a lovely garden on the water as well. The congregation is
now planning to build a rain garden.
S T E WA R D S O F T H E B AY 1 9 Institutional LifeVI. C
ONSERVE ENERGY AND SAVE ON COSTS Where can we learn more? Visit
Interfaith Power & Light Why?
http://www.interfaithworks.org/The electricity that feeds the
thousands of houses of worship Consult the Putting Energy into
Stewardship guidein the Chesapeake Bay region comes mostly from
burning from the U.S. ENERGY STAR program. Make ancoal. Carbon
emissions from coal-fired power plants are pro- action plan and
commit to substantial energy reductionjected to increase by 45
percent between 2000 and 2025. over a period of time, then measure
the savings in utili-Surprisingly, lighting accounts for about 25
percent of ty costs. Find the guide at www.energystar.gov
andAmerican electricity consumption, and this consumption of click
on congregations.electricity is the largest source of greenhouse
gas emissions in Should you not find compact fluorescent lightbulbs
atthe United States. Since most church sanctuaries are large your
local retailer, these national companies offer aspaces used only
periodically throughout the week, religious good selection. Real
Goods at www.realgoods.com andbuildings are prime for energy
savings. Compact fluorescent Seventh Generation at
www.seventhgen.comlight bulbs, with a modest upfront investment,
can save ener-gy costs 65 to 75 percent over standard incandescent
lights.An action as simple as a installing a programmable thermo-
VII. G REEN BUILDING AND REMODELINGstat has the potential to save
hundreds of dollars a year in util- Why?ity bills, as well as
prevent literally tons of pollution. Most When its time to remodel
or make improvements, our con-religious office areas are
high-traffic, well-used areas where gregations can choose to make
wise purchases that reducesmall changes like weather-stripping,
energy-efficient appli- adverse affects on congregational and
creation health. Greenances, or compact fluorescent bulbs can make
a significant building and remodeling is an approach that makes
yourdifference in energy use. space look better and work better for
your church and cre- ation. With careful planning, you can build or
rebuild aWhat can we do? sacred space that is beautiful, inspiring,
welcoming, and sus-Conduct an energy audit tainable.
Environmentally-friendly building products andStart with an energy
audit of your church building. This willprovide a baseline for
where to begin and help prioritize themost cost-effective
interventions. Ask your power company if (they help with audits or
visit www.energyguide.com. Certified Green Buildings The United
States Green BuildingReplace inefficient lights with clean,
efficient lights Council (USGBC), a nonprofit organiza-Following
your energy audit, replace incandescent lights with tion, has
developed the Leadership in Energylow-mercury compact fluorescent
light bulbs, which use less and Environmental Design (LEED) rating
system,energy than traditional lighting. They are now found at most
which makes it easier to determine how to cre-major home
improvement stores and come in sizes to fit all ate a healthy and
green building. The LEED sys-light fixtures. tem utilizes a list of
34 potential attributes andPurchase green power certification is
given at the silver, gold, and plat-Check into purchasing green
power from your local energy inum levels. Through USGBC,
congregations cancompany. Green power is electricity generated
using environ- find helpful resources to improve the quality
ofmentally friendly renewable and reusable resources, such as their
buildings and might even want to considersolar, wind, biomass and
water. To learn more about your seeking LEED certification.local
options, see www.epa.gov/greenpower/index.htm Find out more, at
www.usgbc.org/leed.
S T E WA R D S O F T H E B AY 2 0 Institutional Lifeenergy-wise
designs will enhance creation, and its resources, Arather than
deplete it. Unitarian Universalist Green Sanctuary ProgramWhat can
we do? As a part of the Unitarian Find an architect who is
knowledgeable about environ- Universalists Ministry for Earth,
mental design and who can help create a structure that their Green
Sanctuary Program is to promote requires little energy to maintain.
sustainable lifestyles through living in a way that Use renewable,
non-toxic building materials to limit nurtures life, builds
relationships, and rejects the negative impacts on creation and
maximize indoor material consumption as the sole determinant air
quality. of happiness. The program includes a certifica- Seek
renewable, local building materials that will tion process for
congregations to receive require less transportation for delivery
and reduce the accreditation as a Green Sanctuary. use of
transportation fuel. Keep an eye toward energy efficiency in order
to cut Learn more about UUs Green Sanctuary down on energy
consumption, reducing air pollution Certification process, see
www.uuaspp.org and carbon emissions, which lead to climate
change.Where can we learn more? For a great resource on green
remodeling, check your Looking for a national source of green
building library or local bookstore for Green Remodeling: products,
check out Green Building Supply at Changing the World One Room at a
Time by Johnston www.greenbuildingsupply.com and Green Home and
Master (New Society Publishers, 2004). at www.greenhome.com.
Maryland Department of Natural Resources has a Contributions to
this section from Naomi Friedman, Center for a New Green Building
Network. For more information visit American Dream, Director of
Sustainable Markets and Howard Ebenstein,
www.dnr.state.md.us/ed/mdgbn/ DC Energy Office, Energy Program
Specialist SUCCESS STORY: Adat Shalom Green Building Process Adat
Shalom Reconstructionist Congregation in Bethesda, Maryland, is the
second synagogue in the US to receive the EPAs ENERGY STAR
Congregation award. Together with their green-savvy architects,
they designed and built a space that they believe expresses a deep
sense of community, a respect and love for Jewish tradition, and a
full embrace of the natural world and of our responsibility as
stewards of Creation. The site itself features passive solar
heating, new and reused building materials from local and certified
sustainable sources, low-energy use lighting fixtures. Adat Shalom
members wanted their new home connect with, rather than be removed
from, the natural world. Now their courtyards, gardens, and
amphitheater host a range of worship activities and community
events. To read more about Adat Shalom green building process,
visit www.adatshalom.net/lech_lecha.html.
S T E WA R D S O F T H E B AY 2 1Education and Outreach s
stewards of all Gods creation, we have the responsi- churches in
your area. The National Council of Churches, inA bility to educate
ourselves and others about the cre- ations wondrous, living
diversity, how it is placed atrisk by human activity and what can
be done to undo past partnership with local faith-based
organizations, also host several regional training events around
the country. The pro- gram for each day and a half event includes
basics on water,damage and plan for more faithful stewardship in
the future. how to motivate and inspire your congregation,
advocacyWe must prepare ourselves with the necessary tools to
protect training, hands-on field trip opportunities, fellowship,
andthe systems that sustain life for not only humans, but for all
of congregational success stories. Special clergy events
(withcreation. And we must respond with actionand guide oth-
continuing education credits offered) are also offered.ersto
responsibly conserve and preserve Gods gifts that wehave been so
abundantly provided. For a list of upcoming events visit
www.nccecojustice.org To host your own event, reference the sample
agendasWhile individual efforts to protect our environment are
located in the Appendix.important, these steps alone are not
sufficient. It will requireour collaborative efforts to address the
systemic problems that Share in fellowshipaffect the well-being of
the Gods creation. The actions you Gods Great Outdoors:take with
your congregation and in the local and global com- Sponsor hikes,
walks, and bike rides that integrate faith.munity will be important
to protect Gods natural gifts for this Encourage participants to
stop along the way and thankand future generations. God for the
creations they witness. These trips will be a great opportunity to
share in fellowship and enjoy togetherCONGREGATIONAL EDUCATION the
glory of Gods lands and waters. You might also consid-Church
communities can educate children and adults about er organizing
outdoor field trips for adult study classes orthe theological and
spiritual aspects of Gods creation, and the youth groups to learn
more about local and regional envi-practical implications for
Christian living, through Sunday ronmental issues.School classes,
vacation Bible school, and adult studies. Join a National Public
Lands Day event in September near your place of worship. For more
information, goForm an environmental study and action group to
www.npld.comA study and action group can be a great way for
parishionersto gather for fellowship, learning, and action. Whether
as a Waste-wise Meals:core group or as supplemental to a creation
awareness group, For congregational dinners, ask environmental
group mem-this group can help the rest of the congregation become
more bers or volunteers to sponsor a table. Each
sponsorenvironmentally aware and promote positive changes within
should provide the dishes, silverware, and cloth napkins forthe
church community. their table. While significantly reducing the
waste for the event, you can also use the task as a learning
opportunity toTrain your leaders discuss the connect