Roy’s Ramblings

This past week I (and millions of others) observed Earth Day. It is celebrated annually on April 22 to promote environmental protection, conservation, and sustainability worldwide. Founded in 1970 by U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson, it has historically been recognized as the largest civic event, featuring global activities like tree planting, cleanups, and educational workshops to combat climate change.

The first Earth Day was held on April 22, 1970, when 20 million Americans protested for environmental awareness, helping to launch the modern environmental movement; and is now focused to raise awareness about environmental issues such as pollution, oil spills, and loss of biodiversity, and to prompt action for a healthier, more sustainable planet. The United Nations refers to it as International Mother Earth Day, promoting harmony with nature. Individuals can participate by reducing plastic use, planting trees, cleaning up local parks, and educating others.

Scripture frames Earth Day through the concept of “stewardship,” highlighting humanity’s responsibility to care for God’s creation. Biblical, faith-based reflections often emphasize that the earth belongs to God (Psalm 24:1) and that humans are caretakers, not owners, of nature.

So, this past week I joined a team of folks to plant 20 native trees, sowed some native wild flowers, and went out to work in my garden plot in the community garden near Deer Run Park. We, as a church, reduce, reuse, recycle, and have solar panels on the roof of our building. We have many folks that drive Electric/Hybrid Vehicles and most of us have reusable shopping bags and do what we can to lessen our carbon footprint. So I applaud all of our efforts and encourage each of us to take even more steps to nurture nature and be the stewards that God has called us to be.

Blessings All – Pastor Roy