Where does a church look when seeking ways to better honor God’s Creation…in essence to be “greener”?  In what direction does a congregation go to find ideas and support?  Resources have multiplied in the last few years…How does one sort it out and discern?  Our churches are in the distinct position to provide leadership by example  to parishioners  as well as the wider community along the environmental stewardship road.  But how best to do that?

For the past 4 years here in RI  the faith community has had the support offered by a local interfaith group (with a national affiliation), RI Interfaith Power and Light  – RI IPL*. RI IPL offers workshops and materials, DVDs and websites, along with an annual statewide conference that can help individuals and congregations find ways, large and small, to learn about and care for God’s Creation.  Their website www.riipl.org and joining their e-mail list offer ongoing ideas and opportunities.

In recent months we at GreenWays have learned about a new opportunity offered through GreenFaith, an interfaith organization also dedicated to promoting environmental stewardship. The GreenFaith program involves a rewarding 2 year process during which a congregation becomes a GreenFaith Sanctuary.  ” Participating congregations undertake a range of environmental initiatives in areas of worship, religious education, spiritual practices, ‘greening’ of the buildings, and environmental justice.”…leading to a deeper level of environmental leadership, a reduction in operating costs,  the attraction of new, often younger members, and the availability of extensive resources and support.

The GreenFaith Certification Program in collaboration with the Episcopal Church is offering supplemental grants to congregations willing to make a serious commitment bearing in mind “the interdependent issues of environmental, economic and social injustice and how these three factors subvert the dignity of those most adversely impacted by their affects.”

To learn more about this opportunity, and to access a recording of an introductory webinar on the Certification Program, visit http://greenfaith.org/success-stories/episcopal-church-partnership-certification.  To learn about future webinars, or to ask questions about this program, contact Mike Schut at mschut@episcopalchurch.org or Stacey Keneally at certification@greenfaith.org.  May 1st is the application deadline for the next round of parish grants.

*not to be confused with People’s Power and Light-PPL, a different, non profit group that promotes renewable energy

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