From the Pastor

 

Genesis 9:9-10a - “As for me, I am establishing my covenant with you and your descendants after you, and with every living creature that is with you, the birds, the domestic animals, and every animal of the earth with you.”

Psalm 24:1-2 - The earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it, the world, and those who live in it; for he has founded it on the seas, and established it on the rivers.

Dear Siblings,

September 1st marks World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation, which kicks off the Season of Creation, a global celebration of the bonds we share with all the earth. The Bible begins with God’s affirmation that all of creation is “very good” and names humans as stewards of this creation (Genesis 1:28-30). I n other words, God asks us to protect and nurture the earth. Yet God’s creatures are disappearing at an unprecedented rate- from tiny insects to majestic mammals, from coral reefs to towering trees, even fellow humans are suffering more from asthma and other health issues caused by pollution. We lament the increase in species that are becoming extinct and pray for justice and the flourishing of creation.

Jesus intentionally connects with people on the margins of society, people who are most vulnerable, and calls us to do the same. This is a call for us to care for the earth- through simple things like eliminating single-use plastics and disposable dishes or making sure lights are turned off before we leave a room. By taking small steps we are caring for those who are most vulnerable, especially children. I imagine I am not alone in wanting the earth to have healthy air and food for my nieces, nephews, and my future children.

For this to happen, we must take steps to reduce what we consume and put into the environment. Let us join together in celebrating this Season of Creation as we consider what we love about the beaches we enjoy, the mountains we hike, the fresh air we relish. Let us also consider what we might do to help future generations enjoy this beautiful creation. Let us worship God during the Season of Creation, and everywhere we experience God’s presence in creation!

I will March for a Fossil Fuel Moratorium September 16, which starts in Bordentown at 10 a.m. and ends with a rally in Trenton at the NJ State House Annex around 4 p.m. Emily Dallas and I will also participate in the Climate Strike in New York City on Friday, September 20, as will Robert Joe Lee in Princeton. Contact us if you would like to join us.

 

Grace and love,

Pastor Kristin

First Presbyterian Church of Bordentown

420 Farnsworth Ave.

Bordentown, NJ  08505

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