One of our goals at Au Sable is to change the narrative related to Christianity and the environment. We want to celebrate and highlight the many Christians in this country who are taking steps to serve, protect and restore God’s earth. Last week, the Traverse City Record Eagle highlighted our habitat restoration work in Northern Michigan in an article titled, “Schools and Churches Cultivate Sustainability.” While the article is behind a paywall, we’ve included four quotes below that were featured in the article:

“They learn what happens on land happens to water. They’re crying out for a way to help. We, as older people, are fed by the hope they provide us.” — Paul Wiemerslage, Au Sable’s Environmental Education Coordinator, referring to local students involved in habitat restoration projects.

“I see our students taking away a desire to be creations keepers. It teaches them the process of keeping the area and restoring it to the best of our ability.” —Sacha Standfest, Principal of Traverse City Christian Elementary School

“The Bible says the created world is good and has value — and Christians are called to preserve it. People of faith want to be part of this restoration.” —Jon Terry, Executive Director of Au Sable Institute

“Our goal is to tell people about God’s love through ecology and the many ways God’s love manifests to us.” —Parish Priest Ciprian Streza of Archangel Gabriel Orthodox Church, referring to the new community garden at his church.