Happy Earth Month from St. John’s Caretakers of Creation!

We’re very excited to offer a series of adult education book discussions AND a multigenerational movie screening this month on Sunday mornings in April!

On April 7^th and 14^th during Adult Ed time, we’ll host a pair of book discussions. In last month’s newsletter, we shared some resources from Douglas Tallamy’s wonderful book, Nature’s Best Hope: A New Approach to Conservation that Starts in your Yard. We’re pleased to have a panel to discuss their own experiences and field your questions about doing conservation right at home. Panelists will include St. John’s member and master gardener, Kris Nelson, along with Pastor Christine, and members of the Caretakers committee. You can read EITHER the “young readers” edition (preferred by some adults!) or the New York Times bestseller original edition. These are available at the L.E. Phillips public library or at booksellers everywhere!

On April 21^st at 10:30, following worship, we’re excited to offer a FREE screening of a star-studded, award-winning, still-in-the-theaters documentary, Common Ground, Saving the Planet, One Acre at a Time. Bring your own sack lunch and we’ll provide beverages. (This film was made possible through a partnership between the filmmakers and Interfaith Power & Light. You can check out the trailer here: https://commongroundfilm.org/.)

“Common Ground is a new film about how regenerating the world’s soils has the potential to rapidly stabilize Earth’s climate, restore lost ecosystems, and create abundant food supplies. This film explains why transitioning to regenerative agriculture could be key in rehabilitating the planet, while simultaneously invigorating a new sense of hope and inspiration in viewers.” – Roco Films

“At this moment in our country’s history, we are experiencing three overlapping challenges: pandemic-related social programs are ending, causing more families to go hungry, the awareness of racial injustice rising, and the climate crisis worsening. We have an opportunity to address all of these issues with one focus – our food practices. Food is an important part of our faith traditions, and all the major faith traditions call us to care for the earth. So, how we grow our food is integral to caring for the earth and each other as people of faith and conscience.” – Interfaith Power & Light

The 87-minute film will be followed by a Q&A discussion and an opportunity to unite our faith and values with our awareness and concern by completing one simple, immediate action. We’ll also consider what longer-term actions St. John’s – and all of us – can take at church and in our homes.

Finally, we’ll have some special gifts to share with participants throughout the month! Hope to see you there!