Since 2006, Caring for Creation at Lake Junaluska has provided training and information that attendees can put into action at their local churches, communities, and homes. With a strong focus on climate change, preservation of endangered species, energy use, and much more, Caring for Creation 2011, March 31 - April 3, offers a diversity of resources.
"Coming to Caring for Creation gave me so much information, inspiration, and awareness of the effects on God's people!" exclaimed Emily Cooper of Washington Street UMC in Columbia, SC. "I've been interested in this subject since the late '90s and I've become more concerned. In addition to the presentation by speakers such as John Hill, who was tremendous, there were people from individual churches who had ideas to share. I learned what other churches were doing and how to cope with people in our churches and communities who just don't get it."
Over the past six years Caring for Creation has grown in its focus and intensity from addressing climate issues to discussing spirituality and the environment. 2011 Caring for Creation topics include: Involving Young People in God's Call to Hope and Action, The Work of Interfaith Power and Light, Mountain Top Removal - A Continuing Disaster, and All God's Critters Got a Place in the Choir (by One More Generation).
"Each year we strive to offer new, useful resources that people can incorporate into their everyday lives," commented Loy Lilley, event coordinator. "This year we're exploring container gardening; helping plant trees; touring a solar farm, biodiesel, and sustainable research demonstration sites; and much more."
Visit www.lakejunaluska.com/caring-for-creation for more information about leadership, workshops, and a complete schedule of events. Scholarships are available.