RETURN TO FRONT PAGE OF THIS ISSUE  |  NEXT ARTICLE  |  PREVIOUS ARTICLE

Linda Rimer, Stewardship Committee

1. What emotions do you feel when you read current literature or hear news about the state of our natural environment today, that is, the air, water, and land? When you hear of drinking water resources becoming polluted, or diminishing air quality, or ozone depletion, or animal and plant species facing extinction, or global climate changes, do you respond with surprise? curiosity? disbelief? astonishment? anger?

2. When you read the Prayers of the People in the "Book of Common Prayer," and come across these words: "For the good earth which God has given us, and for the wisdom and will to conserve it, let us pray to the Lord" (Form I); or "Give us all a reverence for the earth as your own creation, that we may use its resources rightly in the service of others and to your honor and glory" (Form IV) or in Form V where we pray "for the right use of the riches of creation," do the words make you prayerfully consider your role in protecting our planet, God's creation? Do you believe you have a role? Or do you think this work is best accomplished by elected officials and governmental agencies?

3. Do you know what positions and policies the Episcopal Church has adopted or developed relative to the natural environment? There are many, beginning in 1973, when the General Convention adopted a resolution to: recognize the relation between Christian Stewardship and prudent use of the Earth; encourage responsible and thoughtful use of our natural resources (including air, and all living things) and instruct Churchmen in their responsibilities as stewards of God's Earth, its inhabitants and its environments." Are you familiar with the Episcopal Environmental Network (EEN), a group of concerned Episcopalians who are helping our Church assume a leadership role in the worldwide environmental movement? The stated mission of the EEN is "to educate, encourage, and facilitate congregations, dioceses, provinces and the National Church toward local, regional, national and international activities for the stewardship of God's Creation." This mission is being pursued through reflection (scripture, prayer, and liturgy), education (learning about the issues with individual study, groups, and forums) and actions (hands on activities).

4. Would you like to learn more about what the Chapel of the Cross is doing relative to environmental issues? The Environmental Subcommittee of the Stewardship Committee is beginning to consider these issues and is looking for additional interested members. If you would like more information, please contact Linda Rimer.

© 2002: Chapel of the Cross