Instead of a “New Parable,” this month’s issue of Grace in Action includes a long list of possible ways to be good stewards of the earth at your parish. Help encourage and build awareness of these efforts by using a consistent theme and/or a logo in your parish bulletin and signage to highlight the good works your parish has undertaken for love of the earth. Perhaps you could put small signs on lowered thermostats or parish re-cycling bins or the stack of paper (rather than styrofoam) cups at coffee and donuts that say “Good stewardship in action” or “Stewardship practiced here.” Invite your school children or your youth group to brainstorm additional ways the parish can practice good stewardship and celebrate good stewardship when they find it.
Does your parish hold a fiesta, an Octoberfest, or a parish picnic? If your parish is like most, the event is an opportunity for lots of good food, family fun, and friendship – and it creates a mountain of trash! What steps can you take to reduce the volume of throw-aways, find sources for biodegradable paper goods and tableware, and make recycling a convenient option for discarded bottles and cans? A little pre-planning can help make this annual parish event an occasion for good stewardship, too.
These ideas and those suggested in this month’s Grace in Action are just a beginning. You may wish to gather interested members of your parish, meet with your local Ecumenical or Interfaith Council, or consult your local school board to generate many, many other ways to be good stewards of the earth and the resources God has provided in your local community. April 22nd is Earth Day 2008, and a perfect day to get started!
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