EARTH MINISTRY OF BINKLEY BAPTIST CHURCH

“The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.”
  Psalm 19: 1.

“To know this world at its best is to know something heavenly. “ 
Wendell Berry

Binkley members believe in being responsible stewards of the magnificent world that God has created for us! Our committee is engaged in all of the activities mentioned below. All are welcome to join us.

Greening Binkley:  In 2010, our committee led an exploration of opportunities for “greening” the church building and grounds, culminating in a report to Church Council. We currently are involved in helping with the implementation of those recommendations. Click here to see a list of green tips.

Celebrating God’s Gifts: The Earth Ministries Committee traditionally leads worship and decorates the altar several Sundays each year. Typically these Sundays have included those preceding Thanksgiving, Earth Day, and the Feast of St. Francis and St. Clare.

Blessing of the Animals:  In the fall, the Earth Ministries Committee has held an outdoor Blessing of the Animals service, which recognizes the special place that animals hold in many Binkley members’ lives. This service often coincides with the birthday of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and the environment.

Personal Responsibility:
  From time to time, the Earth Ministries Committee has collected and disseminated information about ways to become better caretakers of the Earth. In 2009, for example, we solicited “Green Tips,” from the congregation, some of which were published in the church newsletter. Here, we also offer a link providing Earth-friendly cleaning products as an inexpensive alternative to harsher commercial ones.

Education: We take opportunities to educate the congregation about the environment and our role in protecting it. In 2010, for example, we selected and purchased several books and films to form the start of an environmental collection for the Binkley library. (Click here to list a list of Binkley library resources.)  In 2009, we invited a noted theologian and environmentalist to speak in Worship. Click here to see a list of recommended websites.

Locavore and vegetarian fellowships: Binkley’s membership includes many devoted locavores, vegans, vegetarians, and vegetable eaters, who come together periodically to offer a congregationwide vegetarian potluck lunch or supper. In 2010, our committee helped to organize a Wednesday evening potluck meal and program. We encourage members and friends to bring us their favorite vegetarian recipes for inclusion on our website.

Year-end Report: Like other Binkley committees, Earth Ministries is represented on Church Council and submits a year-end report of its activities to the Council.


Earth Ministries Committee, 2010-2011
Stuart Cantrell, chair
Bob Phillips
Josiah Knight
Myra Knight
Bobby Wagoner