Creation Care at Pender UMC
A Ministry of Healing, Stewardship, and Hope
As United Methodists, we believe that caring for God’s creation is a sacred responsibility. Scripture calls us to be stewards of the earth (Genesis 1:26-31), not only enjoying its beauty but protecting it for future generations. Creation care is more than an environmental action—it’s an act of discipleship and a reflection of our love for God and neighbor.
On Earth Day, April 22, 2025, Pender UMC embraced this calling with a Community Cleanup, taking the first of many steps toward a more sustainable and faithful relationship with God’s world. Volunteers of all ages came together to clean up public spaces, care for the environment, and celebrate the gift of creation.
This is just the beginning. Explore how you can get involved in Pender’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and learn how our church is living out its mission by loving all of creation.
“The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.” — Psalm 24:1
How Can You Help?
Faith in Action: Simple Steps to Save Electricity and Care for God’s Creation
As followers of Christ, we are called to be good stewards of God’s creation. One powerful way to live out that calling is by making conscious choices that reduce our environmental impact—starting with how we use electricity.
According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, electricity production is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. In fact, about <b67% of our electricity comes from burning fossil fuels like coal and natural gas. These emissions contribute directly to climate change and environmental degradation.
Thankfully, there are practical steps we can take to reduce our personal and collective impact. The United Methodist Board of Church and Society encourages us to consider the following actions:
Choose Energy-Efficient Lighting
One of the simplest ways to save electricity is by switching to CFL (compact fluorescent light) or LED (light-emitting diode) bulbs. These bulbs use a fraction of the electricity of traditional incandescent ones and last much longer. Every small change adds up—and this is a great place to start!
Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances
When it’s time to replace your refrigerator, washing machine, or other home appliances, consider investing in Energy Star-certified models. They’re designed to use less electricity and water, saving both energy and money over time.
Let the Light In
Sometimes all it takes to save energy is opening the curtains. Letting natural light into your home or workspace can reduce the need to use electric lighting during daylight hours. It’s a simple habit that promotes both energy conservation and a more cheerful atmosphere.
Reduce Air Conditioner Use
Air conditioning is another major energy consumer. Consider adjusting your thermostat, using fans, and ventilating with outdoor air when possible. Small steps like these reduce strain on the power grid and limit your environmental footprint.
Invest in Renewable Energy
If you’re in a position to do so, explore solar panels, wind power, or green energy options from your utility provider. Renewable energy helps reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and supports a more sustainable future.
Rethink Transportation
The vehicles we drive are another major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Carpooling, using public transportation, biking, or driving low-emission or electric vehicles can significantly cut down on our carbon output. Plus, sharing a ride often builds community and connection!
Eat Local, Think Global
Our food choices matter too. Eating locally grown produce and goods reduces the need for long-distance shipping, which burns large quantities of fuel. Supporting local farmers is also a great way to care for your community and promote sustainable agriculture.
Living the Call to Stewardship
As people of faith, we are uniquely positioned to lead by example. Small, mindful changes to how we live can have a profound impact—on the planet and on future generations. By embracing practices that conserve energy and reduce emissions, we honor the God who created this beautiful world and commanded us to care for it.
Let’s be a church—and a people—that lives out our faith in every action, including how we power our homes, travel, and care for the earth.
“The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.” — Psalm 24:1
Ready to take the next step? Start with just one small change today. Your light—quite literally—can help brighten the world.
Impact Youth Garden Project
On Sunday, June 1, 2025, Pender’s Impact Youth continued their mission to bless our neighbors by expanding the vegetable garden for The Lamb Center—a daytime drop-in shelter for individuals experiencing homelessness in Fairfax, Virginia.
In this phase of the project, our youth planted:
- Tomatoes
- Cucumbers
- Peppers
- Basil, Dill, Sage, Rosemary, Thyme and Cilantro
- Marigolds (for pollinators!)
This slideshow captures joyful moments from the day as our young people got their hands dirty for a great cause. Their dedication is a powerful reminder of how small acts of service can sow seeds of hope and nourishment for our community.
Background music: “In the Garden” – performed by Heidi Jacobs as the prelude for the August 15, 2024 Traditional Service.
Special thanks to our adult helpers: Mark Atwood, Brian McCall, Jane McKee, and Arlet Williams.
On Sunday, May 18, 2025, Pender’s Impact Youth took the first meaningful steps in creating a vegetable garden to support The Lamb Center—a daytime drop-in shelter serving individuals experiencing homelessness in Fairfax, Virginia.
This slideshow captures special moments from that day as our youth worked together in service, compassion, and community.
The Garden Project is part of an ongoing mission to provide fresh vegetables to The Lamb Center, helping to nourish both body and spirit for our neighbors in need.
We are proud of our youth and their heart for service. May their hands continue to plant seeds of hope.