Lisa Brenskelle
The mission of Lutherans Restoring Creation is to promote incorporation of care for creation into the full life and mission of the church, working in five areas: worship, education, discipleship, building & grounds, and public ministry/advocacy. For some timely tips in these areas, see below:
- Worship: Rogation will soon be upon us. Rogation honors God for the gift of creation and prays for the land, the gift of labor, and the needs of all people. The major rogation is held on April 25, the sixth Sunday of Easter, while minor rogations are held on the Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday before Ascension, which are all traditions options. Rogation can be observed at any convenient time. For resources to celebrate Rogation, check out the liturgy from Wartburg Seminary or other materials here. Consider creation-focused prayers for Easter in year A. Creation-focused commentaries on the lectionary are available.
- Education: Here are some video/film resources to educate on nature. You’ll find great kids’ nature education here. Connect youth with Lutheran youth from around the world on Lutheran World Federation Youth Facebook. May is Endangered Species
- Discipleship: Make use of the “Bulletin blurb” eco-tips (+ Bible verses & creation-care quotes) on the synod leaders Facebook group each week. Publicize local electronics recycling events and encourage members to participate. The EPA’s Greener Living site can aid members in their care of creation. May is National Bike Month. Encourage members to bike by hosting a Care More, Car Less Sunday. Consider a Blessing of the Bicycles as part of the observance.
- Building & Grounds: Consider these green tips from the Mission Investment Fund. Planting trees for the 500th Anniversary of the Reformation? See these tree planting resources. In response to the churchwide assembly resolution on stewardship of water, see this video on water management for congregations . Consider Watershed Discipleship or GreenFaith’s Water Shield merit badge.
- Public Ministry/Advocacy: Direct members to the Opportunities to Care for, Learn About, and Enjoy God’s Good Creation that is updated weekly. No regular electronics recycling in your area? Consider hosting an electronics recycling event in your community. The Spring Interfaith Environmental Stewardship Event in Houston is coming up on April 2. To get inspired for advocacy, read this article. Caring for Creation is part of the Lutheran Legislative Agenda for Texas synods in 2017. Advocate for the methane rule with the ELCA.
Please contact Lisa Brenskelle from the synod Lutherans Restoring Creation Team for creation care assistance/information.