FROM A RIPPLE TO A WAVE: PSYCHOLOGY OF CLIMATE ACTION
INTERFAITH CREATION CARE SOUTH METRO (ICCSM) was thrilled to see the turnout for this stimulating event. Working with the host church RISEN SAVIOR CATHOLIC CHURCH, BURNSVILLE we sponsored this conversation about the psychology of climate action and the benefits gained from acting collectively. The event occurred Tuesday, May 7th from 6 to 8 pm. Our Key Note speaker, was the highly regarded, Dr. Christie Manning. Dr. Manning has been teaching in the Environmental Studies Department at Macalester College in Minnesota since 2008. She has a Bachelor's degree in Human Factors Engineering from Tufts University and a PHD in Cognitive Psychology from the University of Minnesota. Her research has focused on how people respond to the climate crisis and is particularly interested in the psychological circumstances that motivate community-level action. She recently co-authored publications on the subject. She was accompanied by two of her students who spoke on how climate change has encouraged them to take action to address it. The two students were Solveigh Barney and Inbal Armony. It you want to review what they said you can visit the "STORIES" page of this website for a full print out of their comments. The format allowed for more time for audience interaction. Risen Savior's Green Team and ICCSM worked closely to make this event the success that it was. Check out the PICTURES OF EVENTS page for pictures.
FIFTH ANNUAL EV EXPO AT OAK GROVE PREBYTERIAN
A bigger than ever EV EXPO was held at Oak Grove Presbyterian Church located at 2200 W. Old Shakopee Rd., Bloomington, MN, Saturday, September 23rd, 2023. Interfaith Creation Care South Metro (ICCSM) was there to help make it the success that it was. The American Lung Association was there to facilitate test-drives of EVs, including the Tesla Model Y, Subaru Solterra, Nissan Ariya, BMW i6, Kias and other EVs. Twenty two EV owners displayed their EVs while answering the many questions that visitors had about their actual experience in driving them. Eastern Carver County School District (Chaska) displayed an electric school bus while discussions were held on the climate, health and learning benefits of transporting our children to school via electric buses in comparison to the aging diesel buses used presently. Electric lawn tools and electric bikes from local businesses were available to try out along with games for kids showing the benefits of electricity. Six non-profits and two government agencies tabled at the event including MN 350, Minnesota Interfaith Power and Light, ICCSM, Bush Lake Izaak Walton Chapter, City of Bloomington, MN DOT, EZ EV Go, and Oak Grove Presbyterian Green Committee. The event continues to grow each year as the demand for EV knowledge and its' benefits to our pocket book and our environment grow. People are becoming more aware that driving EVs will have personally significant difference in protecting God's creation the air we breath and our way of life.
ECO FAIR: Yes! We CAN Make a Difference 1.jpg)
Interfaith Creation Care of the South Metro (ICCSM) working with the host Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Burnsville was very pleased with a great turnout on a lousy snowy day for its ECO FAIR. The Fair occurred on Saturday, March 11th, 2023 from 4:00 to 5:30 pm. Those who came learned about the many things you can do to be an effective steward of God's creation. The Fair featured experts on home energy rebates, tips on using less energy, guidance on how to save money, how federal programs can help in this effort, benefits of electric vehicles, recycling, reusing and more. The Keynote Speaker was Jessica Hellmann who is Director of the Institute on the Environment at the University of Minnesota and University Director of the Midwest Climate Adaptation Science Center. She shared her thoughts on: The Power of Individual and Collective Climate Action. Prince of Peace is located at 13801 Fairview Drive, Burnsville MN 55337. There was a door prize and refreshments were available.
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Interfaith Creation Care of the South Metro (ICCSM) working with the host Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Burnsville was very pleased with a great turnout on a lousy snowy day for its ECO FAIR. The Fair occurred on Saturday, March 11th, 2023 from 4:00 to 5:30 pm. Those who came learned about the many things you can do to be an effective steward of God's creation. The Fair featured experts on home energy rebates, tips on using less energy, guidance on how to save money, how federal programs can help in this effort, benefits of electric vehicles, recycling, reusing and more. The Keynote Speaker was Jessica Hellmann who is Director of the Institute on the Environment at the University of Minnesota and University Director of the Midwest Climate Adaptation Science Center. She shared her thoughts on: The Power of Individual and Collective Climate Action. Prince of Peace is located at 13801 Fairview Drive, Burnsville MN 55337. There was a door prize and refreshments were available.
Our churches are looked to for support, inspiration and motivation in our daily lives. Some of the churches we represent displayed on posters what actions they have to be effective stewards of God's creation.
The following exhibitors were in attendance:
Dakota Electric Association (Energy efficiency, renewable energy, rebates)
MN Renewable Energy (MRES) (Solar energy opportunities).
Citizens Utility Board of MN (CUB) (Household energy solutions, home weatherization, etc.)
MN Technical Assistance Program (MNTAP) Small Business energy efficiency measures)
Center for Energy and Development (Save money on utility bills, Home Energy Squad).
MN Interfaith Power and Light (MNIPL) (Benefits from Inflation Reduction Act 2022 on Climate).
MN Interfaith Power and Light (MNIPL) (Benefits from Inflation Reduction Act 2022 on Climate).
Dakota County Recycling Ambassadors (Reducing food waste, composting and recycling)(SIGN UP FOR THE DOOR PRIZE AT THIS TABLE)
MN Clean Cities Coalition (Electrifying Transportation, Electric Vehicles).
Electric School Bus (Benefits from encouraging school districts to go with electric buses.)
Solar Suitcase (How you can help communities around the world to gain benefits of solar).
Lakeville Friends of the Environment (Why it is important to avoid use of single use plastics).
Interfaith Creation Care South Metro (ICCSM) (Importance of learning all we can on climate change).
Boy Scout Troop 3471 from Prince of Peace (Environment Merit Badge display and greeting).
MN Department Natural Resources (State climate brochure, pamphlets and source info.)
Electric Vehicle EXPO May 7th 2022
InterFaith Creation Care South Metro (ICCSM) working with Shepherd of the Lake Lutheran Church, Prior Lake (SOLLC) arranged for a display of Electric Vehicles with their owners on May7, 2022 from Noon until 3pm. The Expo was held in the parking lot of Shepherd of the Lake, located at 3611 North Berens Road NW, Prior Lake. It was a MARVELOUS
success. We had a beautiful blue-sky day for an EV
show. An estimated 200 plus individuals
came during the 3 hours to learn the benefits of driving electric from the
owners of 19 EVs. We showed two Chevy
Bolts, a VW ID4, a Nissan Leaf, a Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, a Ford Mustang
Mach E, an Audi E-tron, a Ford Escape PHEV, a BMW I3 and an i4, a Volvo XC40, a
Toyota Rav4 Prime PHEV, a Kia Niro PHEV, a Tesla Model S, X, 3 and Y, the Eden
Prairie Police Department Model Y squad car, and a Blue Bird EV school bus from
Eastern Carver County School District.
Included in the EVs shown were those of the Senior Pastor and the Church
council president. The Minnesota Valley
Electric Coop. also was there to show off their Model 3 and answer questions
about the incentives they offer for their members to drive electric. Numerous presentations were given on the
benefits of driving Electric. There were
table displays by InterFaith Creation Care South Metro, Citizens Climate Lobby,
MN Interfaith Power and Light and American Lung Association. Yes! There was also refreshments of cookies,
popcorn and lemonade. It was a fun day
enjoyed by all. The volunteers came from
all over the Twin Cities. InterFaith
Creation Care South Metro representing 15 faith communities in the south metro
and the host church Shepherd of the Lake Lutheran Church Prior Lake wish to
thank everyone who participated including those who came to learn another way
to protect God’ creation.
InterFaith Creation Care South Metro (ICCSM) supported the Prince of Peace (POP) Creation Care Group during a special Care for Creation weekend at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Burnsville. The church addressed Care for Creation during all of their services on Saturday night (Feb.5, 2022) and Sunday morning (Feb. 6, 2022). Music, prayers, videos and sermon addressed the message. Chris Erickson, who is the leader of both groups had a special video part in the very inspiring sermon given by the Sr. Pastor Jeff Marian. You can view the on-line service at this link from Facebook https://www.facebook.com/watch/live/?ref=watch_permalink&v=1423672871420292 . The sermon begins with a short video at 28:27 with Chris starting at 36:20. If not on Facebook here is a Youtube link that just covers the sermon and runs 14 minutes. Chris will start his comments at 6:50 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_5IdiDCKK9w . Pictures of the table display, some of the conversations that were had, and volunteers who participated for both the Saturday and Sunday services are found in the Pictures of Events page of this website.
Learn about Solar Energy for your home & community (POP)
This event was held Sunday, April 12, 2015 from 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church Burnsville. Home owners Ross and Lisa LaMothe shared their journey in installing solar panels on their home to gain energy independence. The Energy Services Representative, Mike Plutowski, informed us about how Dakota Electric is supporting residential solar. Trevor Drake of Clean Energy Resources Team (CERT) also provided vital information about the prospects of solar gardens as an alternative for home owners who cannot install their own solar panels. Sean Gosiewski the Executive Director from Alliance for Sustainability also was on hand to answer any questions about solar energy for Xcel energy customers. The event was a success. Those in attendance gained an enormous wealth of information on Solar energy from a host of speakers. Pictures of the event can be found in the pictures page of this website. The power point presentation that the LaMothe's discussed is now posted in the Making a Difference page of this website for those who want to study their efforts in depth.
Film screening of the Journey of Hope (POP).
This event was held Sunday, April 19, 2015 from 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church Burnsville. Robin Riley's recently finished film "Journey of Hope" was viewed and discussed. The film documents how the Minneapolis congregation Mayflower United Church of Christ courageously forged the path to become energy sustainable by 2030. It brings new insights into how faith organizations can tackle climate change issues and forge a new path for building sustainable communities of hope and promise. Pictures of the event can be found in the pictures page of this website. The video is now posted in the Video page of this website for those who missed the showing.
Woman's Retreat (POP)
The Women's Retreat on October 24-26, 2014 with leadership from Creation Care Group had a theme of "Nurture Nature, Nurture Self". Four speakers addressed the issues of caring for our planet and caring for ourselves. Fifty two women attended.
Environment Solutions Event (POP)
Our Creation Care team with the assistance of the MN Plug-in Vehicle Owners Circle held an Environment Solutions Event on Sunday, September 14th, 2014 in the parking lot of the church. The event showcased some of the plug-in electric vehicles that are available to help reduce our family's carbon emissions.
Earth Day Recognition Event (POP)
This event held at POP on April 20th, 2014 was the first event sponsored by the now renamed POP Creation Care Group. Pastor Jeff Marion gave a sermon on taking care of God's Creation. Two of our members Maure Creager and Kay Erickson gave personal testimonies also during the service. After the service the congregation was invited into the community room to view the various table displays showing the impacts on Climate Change and the options to address it. Remember to check out the pictures from all of our events in the Events page of this website.
Creation Sings (POP)
Justice for Creation sponsored this event where the
congregation came together one evening May 25th, 2008 to recognize and celebrate the changes being made on behalf of Creation. Entertainment was provided by musicians and performers including Heatherlyn, Paul Dean and Aaron Hanson.
2nd Creation Fair (POP)
This fair showed the various ways that we all can contribute to improving God's creation. There were 22 tables displaying the many ways we can change. The displays included Buying Local, Supporting Local Farmers Market, Using reusable shopping bags, Shopping wisely, Stopping Junk Mail, Using non-toxic cleaners, Sustainable Landscaping, Reusing old tshirts as diapers, Using Reusable water bottles, Recycle your waste, Composting, Save Energy at home, Recycle your household items, Use Wind energy, The POP energy team, Entertain responsibly, Switch to CFLs, Minnesota Energy Challenge, Buy products made from recycled materials and many more. It was held May 18, 2008. The Fair was very popular.
"Inconvenient Truth" the Movie Aired (POP)
The movie was shown in the community room in February of 2007. A discussion followed.
Reusable Shopping Bags at Cub (POP)
Cub Foods donated reusable grocery shopping bags and the team helped bag groceries on October 6, 2007 with them. The customers received the first reusable bags.
Alternatives to Disposable Gift Wrap (POP)
Interactive displays of alternatives to disposable gift wrap for the holidays were a big hit. The first of this effort was November 18,19, 2006. We encouraged using reusable and compostable supplies for their parties.
Creation Fair (POP)
A Creation Fair was held October 7 and 8th, 2006. It was a defining event. Pastor Mike Foss asked everyone at the services to join him in attending the fair. Held in the community room, it emphasized through experience displays the smell, touch and sound of God's creation. We showed how creation was in crisis, the 1st aid for creation and invited people to take a pledge to make changes. Visitors were given a pamphlet with a bible verse, contemplation, question and prayer for each day of creation. Booths were set up reflecting each of these creation themes and our responsibilities for them.
Earth Day Free Tree Distribution (POP)
In recognition of Earth Day on April 23rd, 2006 we distributed donated trees from Dakota Electric Association. (This became an annual distribution of trees from this source up until the recent years.)
Will Steger 2nd Presentation to POP
Will Steger, famous Minnesota Arctic explorer, gives his second talk to POP. The topic this time is how faith had sustained him in his years of exploring. The date was March 26, 2006.
Grant Money Utilized (POP)
Justice for Creation in early 2006 received a grant that was made available to churches to reduce landfill waste. The money was used to purchase 21 recycling and waste containers, display boards and other equipment for our mission. We purchased industrial reusable bags from TARPS to sell to people to discourage using plastic bags. We also purchased 400 spray bottles and ingredients to make "Alice's Wonder Spray" a homemade natural cleaning solution. We also purchased 400 reusable water bottles as well as 600 pencils made of recycled newspapers with the saying "Take good care of God's Creation" all of which were given out at event and Sunday displays.
Diaper Ministry begins under Justice for Creation (POP)
Sometime during 2005 the Diaper Ministry began initially under the Justice for Creation umbrella. This ministry was started by encouraging the donation of t-shirts that were then made into diapers.
CFL Light Bulb Project (POP)
One of our first projects was to introduce CFL light bulbs as a way to conserve energy. We bought about 100 and sold them for $1.00 while the stores sold them for much more. This effort was in 2005.
Mega Sale Handbook (POP)
Our group took its direction and encouragement early in its formation from Congregations Caring from Creation (C-3) a metro wide program. When they heard about the POP mega sale we were asked to write a handbook in 2005, on how to conduct such a sale. It was made available in paper copy and on online. Our group became a mainstay contributor to the Mega Sale and its recycling efforts.
Justice for Creation Started (POP)
Pastor Dan Anderson who was on staff at Prince of Peace started a "justice" mission probably at the end of 2004. The creation care component was mostly recycling of used paper within the church offices. In June of 2005 members of the "justice" team broke into interest groups. With just a few members "Justice for Creation was started. One weekend a month from 2005 through 2006 we had an information table between services to promote recycling, energy saving, and environmental issues.
Transitioning to cleaner transportation helps us to care for God's creation, improve the air we breathe while also avoiding the worse consequences of our changing climate. Volatile gas prices caused by the current international crisis in Europe directly impacts our family budgets which reminds us how important it is to use transportation that utilizes less expensive clean energy sources like electricity from wind and solar. Of course EVs are fun to drive.
Creation Care Worship at Prince of Peace
InterFaith Creation Care South Metro (ICCSM) supported the Prince of Peace (POP) Creation Care Group during a special Care for Creation weekend at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Burnsville. The church addressed Care for Creation during all of their services on Saturday night (Feb.5, 2022) and Sunday morning (Feb. 6, 2022). Music, prayers, videos and sermon addressed the message. Chris Erickson, who is the leader of both groups had a special video part in the very inspiring sermon given by the Sr. Pastor Jeff Marian. You can view the on-line service at this link from Facebook https://www.facebook.com/watch/live/?ref=watch_permalink&v=1423672871420292 . The sermon begins with a short video at 28:27 with Chris starting at 36:20. If not on Facebook here is a Youtube link that just covers the sermon and runs 14 minutes. Chris will start his comments at 6:50 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_5IdiDCKK9w . Pictures of the table display, some of the conversations that were had, and volunteers who participated for both the Saturday and Sunday services are found in the Pictures of Events page of this website.
From the beginning God has called us to care for this planet we call home. It's increasingly clear that we have not done the best job in responding to that call. When we care for Creation we honor the Creator.
What You Can Do About Climate Change
Climate Reality/En-Roads Discussion
What You Can Do About Climate Change
InterFaith Creation Care South Metro (ICCSM) stepped back into in-person events after two years primarily restricted by the Covid 19 pandemic. Using CDC Covid guidelines for indoor gatherings we sponsored the presentation called WHAT YOU CAN DO ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE and were quite pleased with the participation. It was held Monday, October 25th, 2021 at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Burnsville in its newly constructed Chapel.
Bill Middlecamp, our presenter, after giving his presentation to numerous organizations here locally and out of state via Zoom, including one sponsored by ICCSM in January 2021, was asked to provide this presentation in person. ICCSM recognized how well his presentation was received and saw that a larger audience would gain especially considering the recent severe global weather events we have experienced. He is one of over 20,000 trained Climate Reality leaders from more than 150 countries and is a trained En-ROADS facilitator. He has a BS degree in Meteorology, an MS degree in Computer Science, and is a commissioned United Methodist Earthkeeper. For over a decade, Bill has participated in organizing and delivering presentations on environmental issues related to health, economics, science and solutions to the harmful changes we are seeing. If you were not able to attend the event you can check out the video of it at this link https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nB1dXH-muvelm2EcEfuL7vsOhV94AFak/view . An added feature to the event was Chris Erickson singing his newest song What We Can Do. A music video of it can be found at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yKuGK4rZ2sk .
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The event included a Climate Reality presentation showing the environmental destruction we are experiencing today, how we got to this point, and what the future may hold. Participants then were able to imagine together what the future could be using En-ROADS a "choose your own adventure" simulation that uses the best available science to compute and present the results of choices in energy, food production, land-use and consumer behavior that we can make now. The En-ROADS tool can be found at this link https://www.climateinteractive.org/tools/en-roads/ .
This event was sponsored by InterFaith Creation Care South Metro (ICCSM) which is a cooperative effort by creation care stewards from seventeen faith communities in the south metro seeking a faith-based approach to responsible care for the planet.
Climate Reality/En-Roads Discussion
InterFaith Creation Care South Metro sponsored and was very pleased with the turnout to the CLIMATE REALITY/En-ROADS discussion of reimagining the future for God's Creation. The ZOOM presentation occurred on Monday, January 25th, 2021 at 7pm. An overflow event was held Monday, February 1st, 2021 also at 7pm. The event included a Climate Reality presentation showing the environmental destruction impacts we are experiencing today, how we got to this point, and what the future may hold. Following that participants used En-ROADS to imagine together what our future could be. En-ROADS is a "choose your ending" simulation that uses some of the best available science to compute and present the results of choices in energy, food production, land-use and consumer behavior that society can make today. You can view this excellent tool at https://www.climateinteractive.org/tools/en-roads/.
Bill Middlecamp was our presenter and is one of over 20,000 trained Climate Reality Leaders from more than 150 countries and is a trained En-ROADS facilitator. Bill has a BS degree in Meteorology, an MS degree in Computer Science and is a commissioned United Methodist Earthkeeper. For over a decade, Bill has participated in organizing and delivering presentations on environmental issues related to health, economics, science and solutions to the harmful changes we are seeing. Check out pictures from the event in the PICTURES OF EVENTS page of this website.
InterFaith Creation Care South Metro (ICCSM) is a cooperative effort by creation care stewards from seventeen faith communities in the south metro seeking a faith-based approach to responsible care for the planet.
Relay for Our Water
Interfaith Creation Care South Metro in collaboration with Lakeville Friends of the Environment joined the "Relay for Our Water" which was sponsored by Minnesota Interfaith Power and Light (MNIPL). Our portion of the event occurred September 16th and 17th, 2020. Water from Itasca State Park has been transported by foot, bicycle, canoe and Electric Vehicle around the state by different groups. This "Water Walk" is a Native-American tradition to celebrate the importance of water in our lives. It also draws attention to the Treaties we have with our native neighbors and draws attention to the Enbridge Oil Pipe Line #3. Our group had a "Sacred Encounter" ceremony at South Creek in Lakeville in which we celebrated water and blessed the water on its way back to Itasca. Chris Erickson led a ceremony to honor water. Songs were sung, scripture was read and heartfelt stories about what water means to our lives were told. As we passed the water on we felt a connection and ownership or responsibility to protect our water. Water is Life. We received the water on the 16th and transferred to the next group on the 17th. It will be returned to Itasca in October at the end of the wild rice harvest.
Water is under siege from pollution, climate change, mismanagement and corporate environmental disasters. Without clean water, we cannot live. In many of our Native-American cultures, woman are the Keepers of the Water. In recent times many brave women also known as Water Protectors have captured the attention of the world by leading demonstrations at Standing Rock to stop the oil pipelines or Flint, Michigan demanding clean water for our children. The elders understood since the beginning of time that clean water is essential for the survival of all living beings. It is incumbent on all of us to help raise awareness and protect our water for future generations.
Check out the Pictures of Events page for pictures of the event.
Paris to Pittsburgh -- Film Screening
Climate Change in Our Own Backyard with Mark Seeley
Dr. Mark Seeley, on Sunday May 19th, 2019 at St. Thomas Becket
Catholic Church Eagan, hosted by InterFaith Creation Care South Metro (ICCSM), held his audience of 200 transfixed as he described his observations of the changes in the climate here in Minnesota and the Midwest region. As U of M Professor, climatologist and meteorologist, his career has been measuring the climate, designing and building instruments, and collecting the data that show the direction and the degree to which the environment is changing. We learned that the government Climate Normals for both temperature and moisture have been rising faster each decade over time at an ever accelerating pace and caused by humans as reported by data and not models. Slides from his presentation can be found at this link https://www.dropbox.com/s/a6gdfjx67tva04j/Becket_2019%20original.pptx?dl=0 . His presentation was sobering and he meant it to be. Several local organizations displayed information in the hallway after the presentation and answered questions about the steps we all can take to preserve the life-sustaining qualities of our environment. A display of electric vehicles with owners from MN EV Owners was located in the parking lot to suggest a future transportation option as a next step. ICCSM is committed to be good stewards of God's creation. We accept that 98% of scientists agree that humans are changing the creation in harmful ways, that we have the ability to mitigate this change and should take appropriate action now and that inaction causes suffering for the poor today and threatens the future for us all. Check out the Pictures of Events page for pictures from this event.
Celebrating God's Creation
Through Songs and Stories
A fun, family-friendly afternoon of music, storytelling and crafts
was enjoyed by individuals of all ages Sunday, October 28th at Presbyterian Church of the Apostles in Burnsville. We celebrated God's gift to us: this beautiful planet Earth. Faith inspires us to care for all of God's creation and it was clearly apparent as we all sang our hearts out to some beautiful music and heard some great stories. Following the entertainment we all were inspired by the crafts that utilized items that we reused from home. The event sponsored by the many faith communities that make up InterFaith Creation Care South Metro (ICCSM) was a cooperative effort to seek a faith-based approach to responsible care for the planet. Check out pictures from the event in the Pictures page of this website.
Sacred Encounter With the Earth
We were excited to try something new in 2018. Interfaith Creation Care South Metro had an event on the fourth Sunday of each month of June, July and August. The event was an interfaith service focused on celebrating God's Creation held at Caponi Art Park in Eagan. It was an opportunity to share songs, stories, poetry and prayers that celebrate our relationship with the Earth. This was a great opportunity to celebrate our earth and it was appreciated by all. Check out our pictures in the pictures page of this website.
Healthy Planet - Healthy People
and strong participation in discussions following testimonials by Bill Middlecamp and Kay Erickson and our headline speaker. That speaker Dr. Bruce Snyder, MD, FAAN, Clinical Professor of Neurology, University of Minnesota School of Medicine and member of Health Professionals for a Healthy Climate spoke about the interaction between climate change and our health. Sponsored by Interfaith Creation Care South Metro (ICCSM) this was the fourth in a series of presentations of various aspects of climate change. The ICCSM is a cooperative effort of now eleven different faith communities in the south metro area seeking a faith-based approach to responsible care for the planet.
We Can Do This: A Clean Energy Future!
InterFaith Creation Care, representing Creation Care groups from 10 faith communities in the south metro, successfully sponsored another speaking event including Dr. Jay Coggins,
a University of Minnesota distinguished teaching professor. The event was held Saturday, April 22, 2017 at Shepherd of the Lake Lutheran Church Prior Lake. The "We Can Do This: A Clean Energy Future!" presentation was appreciated by the many that attended. There was such a great response to the previous Rosemount United Methodist event in November 2016 that this member church on the western boundaries of our group wanted it to be available to their church members. Dr. Coggins researches air and water policy, air pollution and public health.
We Can Do This: Climate & the Economics of a Renewable Future
InterFaith Creation Care hosted a stimulating presentation at
Rosemount United Methodist Church on Saturday, November 12, 2016. Dr. Jay Coggins, professor at the U of M, who researches air & water policy, air pollution & public health, explained market-based approaches to environmental protection. Environmental destruction has its biggest impact on the poor and future generations. It was clearly explained that as stewards of God's creation we should be concerned and that we can make a difference. It was noted that inaction has a higher cost to it.
Climate Care: Taking Next Steps
InterFaith Creation Care welcomed more than 200 congregants from the nine faith
communities we represent as well as others from the surrounding community to this exciting presentation at St. Thomas Becket Catholic Church in Eagan on Sunday, January 31, 2016. The theme was that there is hope from taking care of God's Creation when we all join together to take steps individually and as a people. Well known meteorologist and author Paul Douglas kicked off the afternoon sharing stories about people who are making a difference and given the science of climate change and how we are being called to respond. Representatives from a local organization called "Youth be the Spark" a program of Minnesota Interfaith Power and Light (MNIPL) met with youth from the nine churches. A community dialogue about the issues and what can be done followed in break-out sessions.
The
screening of the National Geographic film Paris to Pittsburgh was a big draw
to many south metro faith communities.
InterFaith Creation Care South Metro (ICCSM) (now a coalition of Creation
Care stewards from 14 churches) sponsored the screenings at five south metro
churches from September 11 through October 29th , 2019. The film highlighted the impassioned efforts
of Americans who are demanding and developing real solutions in the face of
climate change. The federal government
has stepped back from supporting the Paris Accords but that is not stopping the
American people in all walks of life, as shown in the film, to step forward and
offset for this action. As the weather
grows more deadly and destructive, cities and citizens are taking action. Following the screening there were some great
discussions addressing many concerns.
The most obvious question raised was “What can I do”. Answers were ably provided and all were
directed to handouts provided by ICCSM at their table or in some cases other
groups present and to the ICCSM . Those churches providing screenings
were Risen Savior Catholic in Burnsville, St. John’s Lutheran in Lakeville,
Shepherd of the Lake Lutheran in Prior Lake, The Well United Methodist in
Rosemount, and St. Thomas Becket Catholic in Eagan. Light refreshments were provided.
ICCSM is committed to be good stewards of God’s
creation. We accept that 98% of
scientists agree that humans are changing the creation in harmful ways. That we have the ability to mitigate this
change and should take appropriate action now.
We recognize our moral imperative to act and that inaction causes
suffering for the poor today and threatens the future for us all. Check out the pictures from this event at the Pictures of Events page in this website.
Dr. Mark Seeley, on Sunday May 19th, 2019 at St. Thomas Becket
Through Songs and Stories
A fun, family-friendly afternoon of music, storytelling and crafts
Sacred Encounter With the Earth
We were excited to try something new in 2018. Interfaith Creation Care South Metro had an event on the fourth Sunday of each month of June, July and August. The event was an interfaith service focused on celebrating God's Creation held at Caponi Art Park in Eagan. It was an opportunity to share songs, stories, poetry and prayers that celebrate our relationship with the Earth. This was a great opportunity to celebrate our earth and it was appreciated by all. Check out our pictures in the pictures page of this website.
Healthy Planet - Healthy People
There is a strong desire in our community to learn how the changing climate is impacting our health in Minnesota. Attendees to Healthy Planet Healthy People on Sunday, November 12, 2017 at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church Burnsville, proved this by their attention
and strong participation in discussions following testimonials by Bill Middlecamp and Kay Erickson and our headline speaker. That speaker Dr. Bruce Snyder, MD, FAAN, Clinical Professor of Neurology, University of Minnesota School of Medicine and member of Health Professionals for a Healthy Climate spoke about the interaction between climate change and our health. Sponsored by Interfaith Creation Care South Metro (ICCSM) this was the fourth in a series of presentations of various aspects of climate change. The ICCSM is a cooperative effort of now eleven different faith communities in the south metro area seeking a faith-based approach to responsible care for the planet.We Can Do This: A Clean Energy Future!
InterFaith Creation Care, representing Creation Care groups from 10 faith communities in the south metro, successfully sponsored another speaking event including Dr. Jay Coggins,
InterFaith Creation Care hosted a stimulating presentation at
Climate Care: Taking Next Steps
InterFaith Creation Care welcomed more than 200 congregants from the nine faith
INTERFAITH CREATION CARE OF THE SOUTH METRO (ICCSM) STARTS
The second meeting of InterFaith Creation Care South Metro (ICCSM) was held September 23, 2015 at Presbyterian Church of the Apostles Burnsville. The actual naming of the group was identified at this meeting. The group is made up of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church Burnsville, St. John Neumann Catholic Church Eagan, Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church Apple Valley, St. Thomas Becket Catholic Church Eagan, Presbyterian Church of the Apostles Burnsville, Rosemount United Methodist Church, Living Joy Lutheran Church Prior Lake and Shepherd of the Lake Lutheran Church Prior Lake.
POP CREATION CARE DECIDES TO EXPAND
The Prince of Peace (Lutheran Church Burnsville) Creation Care group during meetings in the spring of 2015 made the decision that they can be more productive if we open the doors to a larger group made up of Creation Care stewards from other faith communities in the south metro. A list of those faith communities was compiled and contact was made with them to see if they have individuals or groups that might have an interest to work together. Names and contact numbers were gained for some and contact was made. Invitations were offered to a first meeting which was held at Chris and Kay Erickson's house in June of 2015. Plans were made for a second meeting.
Creation Care Recognition (POP)
Worship services at POP on June 20th and 21st, 2015 gave recognition to God's creation and the importance of the caring for it. The theme focused on how we can care for God's creation for the next generation. Vacation Bible School kids participated in the worship service. The services were outdoors and there were games for the kids, live music, a cook out. Pastor Claire Cassell gave the sermon. An audio of that sermon can be found in the Audio section of the INSPRATIONAL MESSAGES page on this website. Our group was introduced and provided assistance in making sure that trash was recycled appropriately.
Learn about Solar Energy for your home & community (POP)
This event was held Sunday, April 12, 2015 from 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church Burnsville. Home owners Ross and Lisa LaMothe shared their journey in installing solar panels on their home to gain energy independence. The Energy Services Representative, Mike Plutowski, informed us about how Dakota Electric is supporting residential solar. Trevor Drake of Clean Energy Resources Team (CERT) also provided vital information about the prospects of solar gardens as an alternative for home owners who cannot install their own solar panels. Sean Gosiewski the Executive Director from Alliance for Sustainability also was on hand to answer any questions about solar energy for Xcel energy customers. The event was a success. Those in attendance gained an enormous wealth of information on Solar energy from a host of speakers. Pictures of the event can be found in the pictures page of this website. The power point presentation that the LaMothe's discussed is now posted in the Making a Difference page of this website for those who want to study their efforts in depth.
Film screening of the Journey of Hope (POP).
This event was held Sunday, April 19, 2015 from 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church Burnsville. Robin Riley's recently finished film "Journey of Hope" was viewed and discussed. The film documents how the Minneapolis congregation Mayflower United Church of Christ courageously forged the path to become energy sustainable by 2030. It brings new insights into how faith organizations can tackle climate change issues and forge a new path for building sustainable communities of hope and promise. Pictures of the event can be found in the pictures page of this website. The video is now posted in the Video page of this website for those who missed the showing.
Woman's Retreat (POP)
The Women's Retreat on October 24-26, 2014 with leadership from Creation Care Group had a theme of "Nurture Nature, Nurture Self". Four speakers addressed the issues of caring for our planet and caring for ourselves. Fifty two women attended.
Environment Solutions Event (POP)
Our Creation Care team with the assistance of the MN Plug-in Vehicle Owners Circle held an Environment Solutions Event on Sunday, September 14th, 2014 in the parking lot of the church. The event showcased some of the plug-in electric vehicles that are available to help reduce our family's carbon emissions.
Earth Day Recognition Event (POP)
This event held at POP on April 20th, 2014 was the first event sponsored by the now renamed POP Creation Care Group. Pastor Jeff Marion gave a sermon on taking care of God's Creation. Two of our members Maure Creager and Kay Erickson gave personal testimonies also during the service. After the service the congregation was invited into the community room to view the various table displays showing the impacts on Climate Change and the options to address it. Remember to check out the pictures from all of our events in the Events page of this website.
Creation Sings (POP)
Justice for Creation sponsored this event where the
2nd Creation Fair (POP)
This fair showed the various ways that we all can contribute to improving God's creation. There were 22 tables displaying the many ways we can change. The displays included Buying Local, Supporting Local Farmers Market, Using reusable shopping bags, Shopping wisely, Stopping Junk Mail, Using non-toxic cleaners, Sustainable Landscaping, Reusing old tshirts as diapers, Using Reusable water bottles, Recycle your waste, Composting, Save Energy at home, Recycle your household items, Use Wind energy, The POP energy team, Entertain responsibly, Switch to CFLs, Minnesota Energy Challenge, Buy products made from recycled materials and many more. It was held May 18, 2008. The Fair was very popular.
"Inconvenient Truth" the Movie Aired (POP)
The movie was shown in the community room in February of 2007. A discussion followed.
Reusable Shopping Bags at Cub (POP)
Cub Foods donated reusable grocery shopping bags and the team helped bag groceries on October 6, 2007 with them. The customers received the first reusable bags.
Alternatives to Disposable Gift Wrap (POP)
Interactive displays of alternatives to disposable gift wrap for the holidays were a big hit. The first of this effort was November 18,19, 2006. We encouraged using reusable and compostable supplies for their parties.
Creation Fair (POP)
A Creation Fair was held October 7 and 8th, 2006. It was a defining event. Pastor Mike Foss asked everyone at the services to join him in attending the fair. Held in the community room, it emphasized through experience displays the smell, touch and sound of God's creation. We showed how creation was in crisis, the 1st aid for creation and invited people to take a pledge to make changes. Visitors were given a pamphlet with a bible verse, contemplation, question and prayer for each day of creation. Booths were set up reflecting each of these creation themes and our responsibilities for them.
Earth Day Free Tree Distribution (POP)
In recognition of Earth Day on April 23rd, 2006 we distributed donated trees from Dakota Electric Association. (This became an annual distribution of trees from this source up until the recent years.)
Will Steger 2nd Presentation to POP
Will Steger, famous Minnesota Arctic explorer, gives his second talk to POP. The topic this time is how faith had sustained him in his years of exploring. The date was March 26, 2006.
Grant Money Utilized (POP)
Justice for Creation in early 2006 received a grant that was made available to churches to reduce landfill waste. The money was used to purchase 21 recycling and waste containers, display boards and other equipment for our mission. We purchased industrial reusable bags from TARPS to sell to people to discourage using plastic bags. We also purchased 400 spray bottles and ingredients to make "Alice's Wonder Spray" a homemade natural cleaning solution. We also purchased 400 reusable water bottles as well as 600 pencils made of recycled newspapers with the saying "Take good care of God's Creation" all of which were given out at event and Sunday displays.
Diaper Ministry begins under Justice for Creation (POP)
Sometime during 2005 the Diaper Ministry began initially under the Justice for Creation umbrella. This ministry was started by encouraging the donation of t-shirts that were then made into diapers.
CFL Light Bulb Project (POP)
One of our first projects was to introduce CFL light bulbs as a way to conserve energy. We bought about 100 and sold them for $1.00 while the stores sold them for much more. This effort was in 2005.
Mega Sale Handbook (POP)
Our group took its direction and encouragement early in its formation from Congregations Caring from Creation (C-3) a metro wide program. When they heard about the POP mega sale we were asked to write a handbook in 2005, on how to conduct such a sale. It was made available in paper copy and on online. Our group became a mainstay contributor to the Mega Sale and its recycling efforts.
Justice for Creation Started (POP)
Pastor Dan Anderson who was on staff at Prince of Peace started a "justice" mission probably at the end of 2004. The creation care component was mostly recycling of used paper within the church offices. In June of 2005 members of the "justice" team broke into interest groups. With just a few members "Justice for Creation was started. One weekend a month from 2005 through 2006 we had an information table between services to promote recycling, energy saving, and environmental issues.
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