2019 Earth Month Features
To celebrate Earth Month, VAIPL is featuring faith communities and congregations across the Commonwealth leading up to Earth Day. While we lift up and celebrate the awesome efforts of these faith communities, we hope you and your community will be inspired and informed by their journeys! These features will be included in our e-newsletter running from mid-March through Earth Day because of all of the stories we want to share.
Williamsburg Unitarian Universalist
Williamsburg Unitarian Universalists have been committed to environmental justice since the congregation’s inception 30 years ago. WUU was certified as a “Green Sanctuary” in 2012, and the vision for an expansion in 2017 included renewable power. Unfortunately the construction budget left little room for a solar power system. But, thanks to some hard work and creative problem solving the UUs now have solar panels!
Read the full profile of WUU and how they made solar power possible on a tight budget.
Valley Friends
Recognizing the need to “practice what they preach,” Valley Friends Meeting established a committee to quantify the meetinghouse’s energy needs and recommend carbon-reduction options. This assessment revealed a tantalizing possibility—net-zero emissions (exclusive of transportation)—by replacing an antiquated oil furnace with a modern heat pump followed by installing a solar array on the south-facing roof sufficient for all electrical needs, including heating.
Casa Alma
Casa Alma is a volunteer-led, non-profit Catholic Worker Community started by Steve and Laura Brown in Charlottesville, Virginia. The Catholic Worker movement is a network of autonomous communities which value the inherent dignity of every person. Simple, sustainable living and Creation care are integral to Casa Alma’s mission and structure.
Read the full profile of Casa Alma and how they are caring for Creation here.
Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church
On March 9, folks joined Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church (OLQP) in Arlington, Virginia to celebrate and bless their newly installed solar panels! OLQP made the decision to go solar and contract for wind generated energy in response to Pope Francis’ call to Care for our Common Home.
VA Faith Communities for Climate Action Google Group
Join a supportive, statewide network of Virginians of many faiths caring for Creation and protecting our neighbors from the impacts of climate change. This list is a place to ask other green leaders questions, share about your community’s projects, and to inspire each other to take action. Request to join the Google Group.
