All life is interconnected. From the forest to the sea to humanity itself, each thread of being is woven into a single fabric of existence. We embrace nature’s beauty and are in awe of its power. We care for our environment so that it may sustain life for generations to come.  Creating a sustainable way of life is central to our view of a just and compassionate world.

Stewardship of the Earth

We recognize the imperative to lead, act, and speak on behalf of stewardship of the Earth. We are developing a wide-ranging program of environmental education and political activism for church members and the wider community. We strive to partner with local and national organizations to inform best practices for our environmental activism.

As we go through a process of reviewing, revising, and updating our building’s energy audit, we continually take steps to make our building and grounds more environmentally friendly. 

Through a capital campaign, energy efficient windows replaced all the classroom windows on the southwest side of our building during the spring and summer of 2019. We are also very excited to announce the recent installation of solar panels which will reduce our congregation’s carbon footprint. 

In early 2020, the Board approved a long-term plan to transform our grounds into a more environmentally supportive campus by increasing carbon drawdown and providing support for wildlife and pollinators.  In early summer of 2020, pollinator plantings were added by the entrance driveway and around the playground.  In fall, the area along the administrative wing was prepared with permaculture layers for planting the following spring, 2021.  Each year, an additional area will be targeted for enhancement. 

To keep informed on our progress or find out what you can do check the Newsletter and memorandum for upcoming events or reach out to Whitney Shuttleworth.

Recycle!

Recently we added an e-recycling station to our “Recycling Row” in the parking lot. Summit E-Waste Solutions will provide a secure recycling bin for all electronic waste. The church will receive a stipend based on the poundage of recycled materials which will help support the Stewardship of the Earth program. 

Our Donation Station provided a great opportunity to recycle and repurpose clothing, toys and household items. A drop off cupboard is at the back of the station. If it is full, please don’t leave items outside of the cupboard but come back the following week. It is open during the Community Meal (4th Fridays), the Whole Food distribution (Sunday mornings 8:30 am-10 am and Wednesdays from 9 am-2 pm.

Highway Clean Up

Twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall, we bring together the team to clean up our section of the highway. If you would like to join us contact Hallie Bowie.