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Living Sustainably

Sustainability is the ongoing capacity of natural and social system to thrive together. We believe that God calls us to sustain both social and natural systems of this generation without detriment to those of future generations. Responding to this call, we seek to understand practical notions of sustainable communities, economies, and personal lifestyles. As Christians, we try to live simply, embracing a notion that enough for all is better than more for some.

Transportation choices, energy use, and food choices can have a tremendous impact on the Earth. To make a significant step towards a more sustainable lifestyle, we need to think through—and then make beneficial changes to—the creation, energy use, waste, and maintenance of our vehicles, food, and homes.

How sustainably are you living? Take an ecological footprint quiz from Earth Day Network and Redefining Progress: www.myfootprint.org

Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal; but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consumers and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there you heart will be also. (Matthew 6:19-20)

What We Can Do

As we seek to live sustainably we can . . .

Transportation: Drive less and choose a vehicle with high fuel efficiency.

Food and Farming: Select food that is locally and organically produced. Find a local Farmers Market and/or join a Community Supported Agriculture farm (CSA). As a member of a CSA, you pledge advance support to a specific farm and receive a weekly share of produce throughout the growing season, sharing in the risk, support and excitement of local agriculture.

Energy Use: Practice energy conservation by purchasing Energy Star appliances, installing compact fluorescent lights, turning off unnecessary lights, insulating walls, and conducing an energy audit of your church/home. (For information, resources, and links, go to: http://energysavers.gov/)

Renewable energy: Learn about renewable energy sources and consider buying green power.

Eco-Justice Ministries has tips for individual environmental choices and tips for congregations. They also have eco-friendly curriculum for Christian Education programs

To Learn More

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