Have you heard about St. John’s work to plant trees, build a native garden, or host zero-waste parish events? These are just a few of the projects led by our Eco Action Team—and we’d love for you to join us!
Eco Action's Mission
Our mission is simple but profound: to promote consciousness of our call to steward God’s creation, and to create opportunities for all of us to enjoy and protect its beauty. From service projects and plant swaps to spiritual nature hikes, we invite you to be part of this joyful ministry.
The Genesis, 30+ Years Ago
The Eco Action Team continues a tradition that began more than 30 years ago, when parishioner Jack Winder helped launch St. John’s Eco-Theology Committee. Those early efforts linked us to a diocesan-wide network that spread environmental awareness and supported churches in starting creation care programs. Even The Washington Post took notice in 1992, highlighting St. John’s as a leader in caring for God’s earth.
Reborn in 2011
In 2011 our parish green team was reborn, beginning with a full Energy Audit and significant investments in efficiency—from window replacements and LED lighting to efficient heating and cooling, in work now led by Tim Dobbyn. Since then, our team's work has expanded to include liturgical offerings, environmental justice projects, and education for all ages. We’ve also partnered with groups like Ward 8 Woods Conservancy, Casey Trees, and the Audubon Naturalist Society to extend our impact in the community.
Eco Action Today
Today, the Eco Action Team is active in many ways: creating a new Urban Native Garden at Bradley and Wisconsin, sponsoring parish-wide vegetarian meals to highlight sustainable choices, and passing out oak seedlings to our church school students to celebrate Arbor Day. Whether it’s tree planting, trash cleanups, or eco-education, there’s a place for everyone to get involved.
Join Us!
Why do we do this? In the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi, who saw every creature as brother or sister, we believe that caring for Creation is a way of honoring God and caring for one another. Please consider joining us—your energy, ideas, and love for the Earth will make a difference. Come to our next Eco Action Team gathering at the home of Co-Chair Jane Houlihan on Monday, October 20 at 7:30 pm. We would be delighted to welcome you!
- Jane Houlihan & Carolyn Peirce
Questions?
Complete this form to connect with parishioners Jane Houlihan and Carolyn Peirce