May Tips UMCJM
Photo: Kaur-Kristjan (Unsplash)
The first commandment from our Creator was to “tend the garden.”
The task of caring for creation may seem daunting, but especially when we do it together, we discover God in new ways.
Share these Tips with your family, friends, and congregation. Choose any or all. Forward them to someone you care about. Cut-and-paste to put them with your email signature, in your letters and emails, worship bulletins, newsletters, social media, or website. Each month 10 Tips will arrive in time for you to choose and use. The service is free.May 2025
The Bible reminds us, “God saw everything God had made and indeed, it was very good” (Genesis 1:31), and humanity’s number one job was to tend and care for the garden God gave us (Genesis 2:15). The same is true today. Find your “garden” to care for Earth.
Creation Justice ident
Plant plants that naturally grow in your area. Native plants require less water than lawns or annuals, help prevent erosion, and do not need fertilizers. They reduce air pollution and increase shelter and food for pollinators and birds. For suggestions, find a Master Gardener in your community or search for “plants native to [your state].”
How much land does your church have? One church on a hill turned their sunny lawn into a garden that feeds 20 families identified by local schools as food insecure. Another church raised 30,000 pounds of organic produce in one year to give away to local non-profits. Yet another one added native plants, porous pavers, and a rain garden, making a beautiful entryway to welcome people and rainwater.
Engage children in nature activities. Grow something together, like a flower, tomato plant, cucumber, or pumpkin vine. Plant seeds outdoors or indoors, using cups or pots. Talk about the delight in God’s creation you feel. As you work together, you'll foster a new generation that loves and cares for nature.
Does your church have a pizza garden? Invite children and youth to help plant, tend, and harvest tomatoes, peppers, onions, and herbs. When ready, hold a homemade pizza party and offer a blessing to connect the experience with God, the source of all growth. Feel with the younger ones the joy of growing and sharing fresh produce.
The more you choose native plants and other perennials, the less you will need to buy in the future. John Wesley encouraged us, “save all you can” to “give all you can.” He’d be pleased; and butterflies, bees, birds and your budget will be happy.
Install rain barrels to collect runoff from your gutters and use the stored water for your garden. Many local governments offer affordable rain barrels. Also, instead of pouring old pet water down the drain, use it to water plants, benefiting houseplants, garden plants, and trees.
Plant for pollinators—plant for our future. Butterflies, bees, and birds are essential for the growth of food for humans, but pollinators face extinction due to habitat destruction and pesticide use. Planting even a small patch can support their survival.
Food waste—both corporate and personal—is the #3 cause of greenhouse gas. Composting food scraps allows you to fill the land with nutrients and avoid the landfill. Explore your options for composting: industrial composting services, backyard bins, and networks of friends contributing to a common composter.
Shop locally at a farmers’ market or community garden and reduce the carbon emissions that come from shipping food long distances. Eat sustainably with more fruits and veggies and reduce the cost to your body. Give thanks for those whose work feeds you and others.
Videos: "A Minute for Mother Earth"
A series of very short videos to help your congregation recognize God's call in the midst of climate-related issues. Each "Minute" is based on the curriculum, Wake Up World, A Curriculum on the Climate Crisis for Faith and Community Groups (available free on the website and in print form from Cokesbury). Access the complete series of "Minutes" free at www.wakeupworld.earth.