Evangelicals are not unified around the idea that global warming is real or that it is our responsibility to counteract it. Many believe that focusing on the environment distracts churches from their primary goal of preaching the Gospel. Others believe that the Gospel calls us to advocate for creation care.

Unfortunately, like many other issues that divide the Church, the topic of global warming often turns into a partisan issue, pitting the left against the right, the conservative against the liberal. This is at least the way it seems in mainstream society. But there must be another option for the Church, which hopefully stands not on the right or the left, but under God. There must be an alternative to division, to each side assuming God stands with them.

It might be easier to ignore this division – easier to avoid the arguments, to switch the subject when the words “going green” come up in conversation. But things are different for pastors and other church leaders, who pray for, speak to and shepherd a wide range of members among whom opinions inevitably differ. For you, it’s not as easy to ignore the green discussion. Take, for example, the younger church membership. The new generation of Evangelical students and pastors has made creation care an issue of priority; it’s something that’s very connected to their faith.

As you may know, the National Association of Evangelicals has decided not to organize a campaign to fight global warming. Is such a campaign the job of the church? Maybe not. Is there a way to take care of our earth without the fanfare and debate of a political campaign? Maybe: “Gather the fragments left over, so that nothing will be wasted” (John 6:12). There may be local or federal rules that push you to comply with new eco-sensitive codes, or maybe your church could benefit financially from green renovations to your facility.

However you feel about eco-friendly efforts, I hope this issue will reflect your concerns, answer some of your questions and offer ideas for meeting the green trend. As always, we welcome your feedback.

Peace,

Lacey Nadeau
Managing Editor
lnadeau@vpico.com